Electricity Workers Threaten Nationwide Shutdown After Alleged Attack on Staff
By Erewunmi Peace
The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has threatened to shut down electricity supply across the country following an alleged attack on its members at a Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) substation in Imo State.
According to the union, some workers were allegedly assaulted, held hostage, and forcefully removed from the facility by armed security operatives. The incident has sparked widespread outrage within the sector, with the union describing it as a direct attack on personnel responsible for keeping the national grid stable.
In a statement issued on Monday, NUEE said its members may withdraw services nationwide if immediate steps are not taken to guarantee the safety of electricity workers at all facilities.
The union warned that the shutdown could take effect at any moment if authorities fail to address the incident and ensure the protection of TCN staff across the country.
The Imo State Police Command has denied claims of abduction or hostage-taking, describing the incident as an operational misunderstanding rather than a targeted assault. However, the union insists that the lives of its members were endangered, prompting the threat of industrial action.
If implemented, the shutdown could lead to a nationwide blackout, as TCN and the distribution companies depend heavily on technical staff who belong to the union.
The union’s leadership has called on the Federal Government and the Ministry of Power to intervene immediately to prevent a total collapse of electricity supply.
