The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has threatened to shut down power supply nationwide after an alleged attack on staff of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) by armed police officers in Imo State. The union’s Acting General Secretary, Dominic Igwebike, said the incident occurred at the Egbu 132/33 kV Transmission Substation, where workers on duty were beaten, held hostage at gunpoint and some were abducted. According to the statement, the police officers—reportedly acting on orders of the state government—forced their way into the substation’s control rooms, vandalising equipment and disrupting operations. Workers’ personal belongings, including phones, laptops and vehicles, were destroyed, and CCTV cameras were also damaged.
In response, the NUEE has directed its members to halt power‑supply operations in Imo State until further notice and has warned that it will withdraw services nationwide unless authorities take immediate action to guarantee the safety of electricity workers across the country. The union demands the immediate release of its abducted members, a formal undertaking from TCN management, the Federal Ministry of Power and the Inspector General of Police to protect its members, and the replacement of damaged or taken property.
The union has condemned the “reprehensible act,” calling for police accountability and emphasizing that it cannot continue to work under conditions of brutality, intimidation and threats to life. Work can resume only when the safety of staff and property is fully guaranteed. The shutdown threat carries significant implications for the country’s power supply, and the union’s demands must be addressed promptly to avoid a nationwide disruption. The incident underscores the need for improved security and protection for electricity workers, who play a critical role in maintaining Nigeria’s power infrastructure, and reflects the NUEE’s effort to ensure its members can work safely and without fear of violence or intimidation.
Comments are closed for this story.