…IBEDC Clarifies Protesters’ Employment Status
The management of Ibadan Electricity Distribution Company (IBEDC) has condemned the protest that took place on Tuesday at its Head Office, stating that the demonstrators were not its direct employees.
In an official statement released on February 18, IBEDC clarified that the protesters were former contract staff engaged by PIPLL, a third-party recruitment outsourcing firm responsible for their employment.
IBEDC emphasized that it had no direct employment relationship with the individuals involved in the demonstration and decried the disruption of its operations.
“The management of IBEDC wishes to address the protest that took place today at our Head Office involving a group of former PIPLL staff. We would like to clarify that these individuals are not employees of IBEDC,” the statement read.
The company reassured the public that it is working closely with PIPLL to ensure a swift resolution and reiterated its commitment to maintaining high standards of staff welfare.
The protest, which reportedly caused disruptions around the office premises, was led by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State chapter. The union had earlier issued a 24-hour ultimatum to IBEDC management, demanding the reinstatement of the affected staff.
Following the expiration of the deadline, NLC members mobilized to the IBEDC Capital Building in Ring Road, temporarily shutting down operations and denying customers access to the premises.
Comrade Kayode Martins, who led the protest, insisted that they would not leave until IBEDC management addressed their demands.
“We will not back down until the management does the needful and reinstates the affected workers,” Martins declared.
However, as tension escalated, the Oyo State Police Command stepped in to mediate between the parties involved. To prevent a breakdown of law and order, the police authorities invited IBEDC management, PIPLL representatives, and NLC leaders to a meeting aimed at finding a lasting solution to the crisis.
IBEDC maintained its position that the affected staff were outsourced by PIPLL and stated that discussions are ongoing with the firm to address the situation.
The company assured customers that its services remain unaffected despite the protest and reaffirmed its dedication to professionalism and operational excellence across its franchise.