Labor Unions Stage Protest, Shutting Down NERC And Disco Offices In Jos

Labor Unions Stage Protest, Shutting Down NERC And Disco Offices In Jos

In a show of solidarity and determination, members of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) orchestrated a protest on Monday that effectively closed the doors of the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (Disco) and the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) offices in Jos, Plateau State……READ ALSO NLC Strike: Adams Oshiomhole Explores Crucial Aspects of Labor Disputes And Political Strain In Imo State

Led by the State Chairman of the NLC, Eugene Mangji, the protesting members erected barricades, blocking access to both the headquarters of the Jos Electricity Distribution Company and the NERC offices situated at the Gold and Base axis in Jos. This move left employees of both organizations stranded, unable to perform their daily tasks.

The primary motivation behind this action was the recent hike in electricity tariff, a decision that has drawn significant ire from organized labor across the nation. Eugene Mangji reiterated that their directive stemmed from the national secretariat of the NLC, aimed at compelling the government to reverse the tariff increase.

Speaking to The PUNCH in Jos, Mangji emphasized the resolve of the union members, stating, “We have shut down the NERC office at Gold and Base. Right now, we are at the JED headquarters at the Ahmadu Bello Way. We will continue until the right thing is done.”

This move follows a nationwide call for protest issued by organized labor, targeting the offices of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission and various electricity distribution companies (DISCOs) across the country. The protest action commenced on Monday, May 13, 2024, in response to the tariff hike, and is part of a broader campaign against the perceived injustice.

The decision to embark on this nationwide picket was reached after a crucial meeting of the NLC’s Central Working Committee (CWC) on April 30, 2024, reflecting the unified stance of organized labor against what they perceive as unfavorable government policies in the energy sector.