In adherence to the joint directive issued by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to embark on a nationwide strike starting Monday over the new minimum wage, electricity workers have halted operations at the National Grid, leading to a widespread blackout across the country.
This information was disclosed by the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) through a statement released by its spokesperson, Ndidi Mbah, on Monday morning.
According to TCN, workers were forcibly removed from their duty stations, with some sustaining injuries during altercations at various power facilities. The company further stated that its efforts to restore grid operations were being hindered by the actions of the union members.
“The Transmission Company of Nigeria wishes to inform the public that the Labour Union has initiated a shutdown of the national grid, resulting in a nationwide blackout. The shutdown occurred at approximately 2:19 am this morning, June 3, 2024.
“At around 1:15 am, the Benin Transmission Operator reported that all personnel were forcefully ejected from the control room, with some staff members being assaulted and injured during the process. Consequently, the Benin Area Control Center was left unattended and unmanaged.
“Additionally, several other transmission substations, including Ganmo, Benin, Ayede, Olorunsogo, Akangba, and Osogbo, were also shut down by the Labour Union. Furthermore, certain transmission lines were deliberately disconnected as part of the ongoing actions by the labour union.