The Edo State Government has intensified efforts to resolve the ongoing industrial dispute between electricity workers and the management of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC), appealing to both sides to embrace dialogue and prevent further disruption to electricity supply across the state.
The Commissioner for Power, Hon. Paul Usenbo, gave the assurance while addressing journalists in Benin City following a conciliation meeting convened by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in Abuja on October 21, 2026.
The meeting addressed several welfare concerns raised by members of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), including salary harmonisation, staff promotions, consequential salary adjustments, overtime payments, personal protective equipment and other outstanding employment-related issues.
According to Usenbo, the meeting resolved that overtime payments should be restored immediately, while BEDC management was given three weeks to address the remaining concerns in consultation with the unions.
However, the industrial action was suspended in other affected states, while Edo State remained excluded from the suspension pending the resolution of issues specific to the state.
The commissioner said the state government was engaging relevant authorities, labour representatives and other stakeholders to secure a lasting resolution and restore normal electricity services.
He appealed to electricity workers and BEDC management to exercise restraint and sustain constructive dialogue, warning that prolonged disruption to power supply could impose further hardship on residents and businesses.
Usenbo noted that continued electricity interruptions could affect commercial activities, healthcare facilities, small businesses and other essential services that depend on a reliable power supply.
He reaffirmed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, consumer protection and the development of a stable and efficient electricity sector in Edo State.
The dispute has placed additional pressure on residents and businesses already grappling with the effects of unreliable electricity supply. A swift resolution would be crucial to restoring normal operations and reducing the economic impact of the industrial action.
With BEDC management reportedly given three weeks to resolve outstanding welfare concerns, attention is now focused on whether negotiations will produce an agreement acceptable to the unions and lead to the restoration of electricity services across Edo State.
IBN News — Fearless, Strong & Reliable
