The National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE) has issued a stern warning of potential nationwide power disruption following what it describes as a brutal attack on staff of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) in Imo State.
Violent Invasion at Egbu Transmission Substation
According to a statement released by the union's Acting General Secretary, Dominic Igwebike, the crisis erupted when armed police officers allegedly acting on state government orders stormed the Egbu 132/33kV Transmission Substation in Imo State. The incident, which occurred on November 17, 2025, saw workers on duty subjected to severe brutality.
Police officers forcefully entered control rooms, vandalized critical equipment, and disrupted power operations while holding staff at gunpoint. The union reports that workers were assaulted, molested, and some were abducted to undisclosed locations.
Union's Immediate Response and Demands
In response to the incident, NUEE has already directed its members to suspend power supply operations in Imo State indefinitely. The union has issued several critical demands that must be met before normal operations can resume.
The union demands immediate release of all abducted staff, replacement of damaged personal property including phones and laptops, and comprehensive medical attention for all assaulted workers. Additionally, NUEE requires formal safety guarantees from TCN management, the Federal Ministry of Power, and the Inspector General of Police.
Nationwide Shutdown Looming
NUEE has warned that failure to address these concerns promptly will force the union to withdraw services across Nigeria. The union emphasized that workers cannot operate under conditions of brutality, intimidation, and life-threatening situations.
The statement condemned what it called "gangsterism and unprofessional conduct" by the police officers involved. Workers' personal vehicles were reportedly damaged, and CCTV cameras vandalized during the invasion that aimed to compel operators to grant an illegal power outage.
All NUEE members have been instructed to stay away from work until adequate safety measures are implemented and protection for both staff and property is fully guaranteed.
