Nigeria electricity workers threaten nationwide blackout

Electricity workers in Nigeria have issued a three-day ultimatum, threatening a nationwide blackout if authorities do not address the alleged assault and detention of staff by Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel.

The dispute began on September 18 in Bauchi State after Jos Electricity Distribution (JED) disconnected power to NAF residential quarters due to unpaid bills. Unions, including the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) and the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), allege that NAF personnel invaded the JED office, assaulted and arrested 10 workers, and seized their personal belongings.

Union leaders stated that some workers required medical treatment following the incident. Rilwanu Shehu, national deputy president of SSAEAC, called on the police and the Department of State Services (DSS) to intervene and resolve the matter. The ultimatum is set to expire on September 23, with the union warning they will ground all electricity sector operations across the country if justice is not served.