The Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) is facing severe criticism from its employees, who have accused the company of perpetuating “modernized slavery” amidst an ongoing strike.
The strike, which began last week, has left thousands of customers without electricity, as workers protest against poor working conditions, low wages, and unfair treatment. A key demand of the striking workers is for IBEDC to staff all workers employed by its outsourcing firm, PIPPL.
According to sources within the company, IBEDC staff are subjected to excessive workload, unrealistic targets, and a culture of fear and intimidation. Employees who fail to meet targets are allegedly denied promotions, bonuses, and even salaries.
The use of outsourcing firms like PIPPL has been criticized for creating a class of “casual workers” who are denied benefits and job security. Workers employed by PIPPL claim they are paid meager wages and are subjected to poor working conditions.
“It’s like working in a slave camp,” said an IBEDC employee, who wished to remain anonymous. “We’re treated like machines, not humans. The company only cares about profits, not our well-being.”
The allegations of modernized slavery have sparked outrage among labor unions and human rights groups, who are calling for an immediate investigation into IBEDC’s labor practices.
“The situation at IBEDC is unacceptable,” said Comrade Olajide Fapohunda, Chairman of the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE). “We will continue to fight for the rights of our members and ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect.”
IBEDC management has yet to respond to the allegations, but the company has maintained that the strike is unnecessary and that employees’ demands are unreasonable.
As the strike continues, customers are bearing the brunt of the dispute, with many left without electricity for days. The situation has sparked concerns about the impact on businesses, hospitals, and other critical services.
The Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) has intervened in the dispute, calling for a meeting between IBEDC management and union representatives to resolve the issues.
As the standoff continues, the allegations of modernized slavery at IBEDC have raised questions about the treatment of workers in the Nigerian electricity sector and the need for urgent reforms to protect workers’ rights.
