Benin City, Edo State — Relief has come to millions of electricity consumers across Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti States following the suspension of the industrial action embarked upon by the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE). However, residents, businesses, and public institutions in Edo State remain in darkness as labor leaders and management continue negotiations.
The management of BEDC Electricity Plc confirmed the development in a statement issued in Benin City on Wednesday, October 21, describing the suspension of the strike in three of its four franchise states as a major breakthrough toward full operational recovery.
The industrial action commenced in the early hours of Monday, October 19, 2026, following unresolved issues regarding employee welfare and labor-management agreements between the company and union representatives. The total shutdown of transmission and distribution networks across the four franchise states—Edo, Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti—resulted in a grid collapse across local distribution feeders, causing widespread economic and operational strain.
In its official statement, BEDC reassured affected customers in Delta, Ondo, and Ekiti States that technical crews are working to safely re-energize sub-stations and restoration lines.
”Operational recovery efforts are being prioritized to facilitate the safe and progressive restoration of electricity supply to affected communities, subject to network conditions and operational requirements,” the management noted.
Addressing the situation in Edo State, where the local NUEE chapter has maintained its picketing stance, BEDC expressed optimism that ongoing stakeholder discussions will yield a complete settlement shortly.
The distribution company acknowledged the heavy strain placed on essential service providers—particularly hospitals and small businesses—and thanked members of the public, community leaders, and government authorities for their patience throughout the disruption.
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