BENIN CITY, — BEDC Electricity Plc has expressed concern over the impact of the ongoing industrial action by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) on healthcare delivery, businesses and other essential services across Edo, Delta, Ondo and Ekiti states.
The electricity distribution company warned that prolonged disruptions could pose risks to patients who depend on electricity-powered medical equipment, while also affecting businesses, public institutions and households across its franchise areas.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, BEDC Management cited concerns raised by Dr Thomas-Wilson Ikubese, Chief Executive Officer of Sckye Hospital, Akure, Ondo State, over the potentially life-threatening consequences of electricity disruptions for patients relying on critical medical equipment and life-support systems.
According to the company, the impact of the industrial action extends beyond its operations and financial interests, affecting healthcare institutions, educational facilities, security agencies, businesses and government establishments that depend on a stable electricity supply.
BEDC noted that uninterrupted power was essential for emergency medical procedures, diagnostic services, intensive care and the preservation of medicines and other temperature-sensitive medical supplies.
It added that businesses in affected communities were facing increased operating costs, while concerns had also emerged over the safe storage of medicines, including insulin and vaccines.
The company stressed that public safety and the well-being of residents should remain central to efforts to resolve the industrial dispute.
While acknowledging the role of labour unions in representing workers’ interests, BEDC said some outstanding welfare-related matters had been the subject of ongoing discussions and interventions by the current Board and Management, led by the Acting Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Jonathan Lawani.
The company disclosed that since March 2025, it had implemented several staff welfare initiatives, including 700 promotions, 833 step increments, improvements in healthcare and group life insurance, settlement of longstanding exit benefits, long-service recognition for 1,394 employees, and investments in specialised technical training and capacity development.
On salary harmonisation, BEDC said discussions were ongoing to develop a remuneration framework that would be fair to employees and financially sustainable for the company.
According to Management, the initiatives reflect its commitment to improving workers’ welfare, strengthening professional development and promoting industrial harmony as part of its broader transformation agenda.
However, the company warned that continued disruption to electricity distribution and revenue collection could weaken its financial capacity to sustain existing welfare programmes, implement further salary improvements and maintain critical electricity infrastructure.
BEDC appealed to NUEE leaders and other stakeholders to embrace constructive dialogue and facilitate the restoration of normal electricity operations while outstanding issues are addressed through established industrial relations processes.
The company also called for special consideration to be given to hospitals, emergency healthcare facilities and other critical public institutions to minimise the potential consequences of power disruptions during the dispute.
Management apologised to customers across its franchise states for the inconvenience and hardship caused by the ongoing industrial action, while appreciating their patience and understanding.
BEDC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting employees’ welfare, maintaining industrial harmony and sustaining improvements in operational efficiency and service delivery.
It urged all parties to prioritise the protection of lives and essential services, expressing hope that a peaceful and sustainable resolution would serve the interests of workers, customers and the wider public.
