Edo Government Pushes for Resolution in BEDC-NUEE Dispute

The Edo state government is addressing the ongoing electricity blackout affecting residents and businesses due to an industrial dispute between the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) and the management of Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC). Barr. Paul Usenbo, the Commissioner for Power, stated that the government is intensifying efforts to mediate between the parties, urging them to engage in dialogue and reach a resolution beneficial to electricity consumers and the state's economy.

He noted that although BEDC is a private entity, the government has a duty to intervene as electricity is vital for households and businesses. Usenbo mentioned that Edo was excluded from a strike suspension agreement reached in Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti states due to unresolved labor issues within BEDC.

He highlighted that some union-related disputes date back to 2024 and are pending in court, with the next hearing scheduled for November 2, 2026. The government is also pursuing long-term reforms to attract investments in the power sector.