Benue govt, JED clash deepens as union threatens to withdraw workers

…Benue people should not suffer for JED-government dispute, Benue’s SDP guber candidate

The Benue State Government’s standoff with Jos Electricity Distribution (JED) Plc has deepened, with the Senior Staff Association of Electricity and Allied Companies (SSAEAC) threatening to withdraw its members from the company’s Benue offices over the alleged abduction and torture of electricity workers.

The dispute followed the disconnection of the Benue State Government House on October 21, 2026, over an alleged meter bypass. SSAEAC accused suspected thugs from the Government House of invading JED’s district office in Makurdi and abducting Mathew Agbata, the State Operating Officer, and other staff members.

In a press statement signed by Nnamdi Ajibo, General Secretary of SSAEAC, obtained by BusinessDay at the weekend, the association alleged that the workers were taken to the River Benue Bridge, assaulted and forced at gunpoint to restore electricity to the Government House.

“Electricity workers are not criminals but essential service providers carrying out their lawful duties.

“Meter bypass is a serious criminal offence under the Electricity Act and regulations of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). No individual or institution, including a Government House, is above the law,” the association said.

“The management of JED Plc has a statutory responsibility to protect and secure its workers while they carry out their lawful duties,” the association added.

SSAEAC further alleged that the workers’ phones and personal belongings were seized and ransom demanded for their release. It said the suspected attackers claimed their boss was embarrassed by the disconnection and accused the workers of working for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

The association demanded medical treatment and psychological support for the affected staff, replacement of their allegedly stolen belongings, compensation and a written, unreserved apology from the Benue State Governor. It also called on security agencies to arrest and prosecute those responsible for the alleged attack.

The association warned that its members in JED’s Benue State District would stay away from their offices until further notice if the company and state government failed to guarantee their safety.

Benue people should not suffer for JED-government dispute – Hon

Meanwhile, Sebastine Hon, SAN, the Social Democratic Party’s governorship candidate in Benue State, has called for restraint and respect for the rule of law.

In a Facebook post sighted by BusinessDay on Saturday, he criticised the disconnection, saying innocent residents should not bear the consequences of the dispute.

“JED, your case is fully understood but collateral and vicarious punishment is not good for the Benue people and even for your image,” Hon wrote, adding that the company should reconsider its position in the interest of residents.