Workers of the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company in Anambra State on Thursday, 8th August, 2025, staged a protest against alleged intimidation and poor remuneration by the management.The protests took place at the EEDC at the state headquarters in Awka, Anambra state capital, as well as, other cities of the state, including Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwulobia, Aguata and Ihiala.The State was suddenly thrown into darkness and the gates under lock and key as the protesting workers were seen outside the premises.It was observed that EEDC power supply went off suddenly simultaneously in all parts of Awka at about 9am after the aggrieved workers started converging at the Awka District of the EEDC and other branches.After a shot interval a team of gun-wielding policemen stormed the EEDC gate and it was forced open.There were also similar protests by the companies workers at its various offices in Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwulobia and Ihiala.Some of the EEDC staff who spoke to journalists expressed their grievances and frustration, praying for genuine interest in the welfare of workers.One of the aggrieved workers who pleaded anonymity, reported that about four of their colleagues, including a married woman with three children, have been detained at the former SARS Awkuzu facilities for over a week.A statement signed by the Zonal Organising Secretary of the FIRSTPOWER Subco,ZOS, SouthEasth/SouthSouth Zone, Comrade Barr. Ifeanyi Nweke, and made available to the press, accused the management of intimidation, detention of their members at the defunct Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) headquarters, Awkuzu, as well as poor salary payments. Barr. Nweke who is also the Vice Chairman, NLC, Anambra State, further lamented that despite their hard work, over 80% of their staff earn less than ₦60,000 monthly, with some salaries stagnant since 2014. He complainer that the current economic hardship has worsened their struggles.The statement read in full:”As the representative of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) for EEDC staff and electricity workers in Nigeria, including Anambra State, I bring to your attention the dire situation our members face. Despite their hard work, over 80% of our staff earn less than ₦60,000 monthly, with some salaries stagnant since 2014. The current economic hardship has worsened their struggles.”Our greatest challenge is the persistent intimidation by EEDC’s Management who uses the police (SARS) to arrest and detain staff without justification. In August 2024, we staged a 4-day protest, securing the release of detained members and a signed agreement to follow the Conditions of Service. However, the issues have resurfaced.”Specifically, four members were arrested on July 31st 2025 and remain detained, sparking protests from FIRSTPOWER Subco workers. We condemn fraudulent acts but insist on following established disciplinary processes, not treating employees like armed robbers.”We’ve notified the EEDC Management, Commissioner of Police, and Director of DSS about our planned protest to address this blatant disregard for our rights. We request your assistance in amplifying our voice and bringing attention to our plight. We’ll share relevant documents for further context. Together, we can help liberate our members from this oppressive situation,” the statement concluded.
