By Daniel Peters
The Benin Electric Distribution Company, BEDC, has restored power supply after three- days ọf total blackout following a strike by National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE).
Electricity supply across Delta, Edo, Ondo and Ekiti states was disrupted for three days following an industrial action by workers over unresolved salary, allowance and welfare disputes with the Benin Electricity Distribution Company (BEDC) Plc.
The industrial action, which commenced at approximately 2:00 a.m. on Monday, October 19, 2026, led to the shutdown of electricity feeders, resulting in significant disruption of supply to customers across the four states.
The blackout has slowed business activities, increased operating costs and heightened concerns among traders, healthcare providers, civil servants and the citizenry, many of whom are now forced to rely on expensive generators.
A BEDC official, Dumebi Kogolo in Asaba, said that the industrial action was suspended to make way for further negotiations between management and staff.
‘’We wish to inform you that the industrial action embarked upon by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has been suspended, pending further negotiations. Additional time has been granted to the Board to continue discussions with the union towards reaching a lasting resolution.
‘’Following this development, all operations are expected to resume soon, with electricity supply and related services anticipated to return to normal as operations are progressively restored.
‘’We sincerely appreciate your patience and understanding during this period of disruption. Thank you for your continued support’’ the statement read.
Recall that the BEDC Management had called on NUEE to immediately call off the picketing action, to facilitate the restoration of electricity supply and return to the negotiation table in the collective interest of employees, customers and the communities BEDC serves.
They apologised for the inconvenience and hardship caused by the disruption and appealed to customers for patience and understanding, assuring them of the their commitment to constructive engagement with the Union, protection of employee welfare and delivery of reliable electricity distribution services across its franchise area.
