In Rivers State, the NLC condemned the recent imposition of emergency rule, which involved the appointment of a sole administrator to replace the elected government.
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced the cancellation of centralized Workers’ Day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states, citing undemocratic developments and alleged political meddling in labour affairs.
In a major directive issued on April 22, 2025, and signed by Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello, the NLC instructed all affiliated industrial unions in Rivers to confine their Workers’ Day activities to the state council’s secretariat, while Edo unions were directed to celebrate independently at their various secretariats.
Rivers State: Protest Against Emergency Rule
In Rivers State, the NLC condemned the recent imposition of emergency rule, which involved the appointment of a sole administrator to replace the elected government. In a letter to the state’s NLC chairman, Alex Agwanwor, the Congress emphasized that this year’s Workers’ Day theme, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” demanded sober reflection rather than elaborate celebrations.
“As a democratic organization, we must seize this opportunity to call for the restoration of democratic governance,” the letter stated, urging a peaceful rally within the NLC premises with strong messages advocating for workers’ welfare, democratic rule, and civil liberties.
Sources within the state labour movement told newsmen that labour leaders have embraced the directive. It was further gathered that the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Rivers has expressed readiness to join the NLC in a joint Workers’ Day commemoration at the secretariat.
Edo State: Fallout of Political Interference
The situation in Edo State is markedly different but no less turbulent. The NLC, embroiled in a leadership tussle allegedly fueled by state government interference, directed unions to mark May Day independently at their union offices.
In a communication to the Edo State NLC chairman, Olaye Odion, the Congress stated: “In view of ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis within the NLC Edo State Council, you are directed to inform all affiliates to make independent arrangements.”
The national leadership assured members of its commitment to resolving the crisis and emphasized the importance of a peaceful and orderly celebration.
Rejection of “Fake” Circular and Leadership
The NLC also disowned a purported circular allegedly issued by an “Acting State Secretary” in Edo, calling it fake and warning workers against attending any government-organized parade.
In a statement dated April 26, 2025, Deputy General Secretary Bello declared: “The NLC has no official designation known as ‘Acting State Secretary.’ The individual behind this dubious circular is not recognized by the Congress.”
The NLC reiterated that Comrade Bernard Joman Egwakhide, mentioned in the fake circular, is neither the chairman nor a recognized official within the Edo State council.
Workers were reminded that May Day remains a labour-led event, not a government initiative, and that attendance at any state-sponsored parade is voluntary. Any threats of sanctions, the NLC said, are illegal and a clear act of intimidation.
Roots of the Edo Crisis
Tensions between the Edo State Government and the NLC have simmered since the administration allegedly rejected Olaye Odion’s leadership following political comments made during the lead-up to last year’s governorship election.
Reports suggest the government fostered factional divisions within the labour movement, despite multiple interventions by the national NLC leadership and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
Government’s alleged disregard for the Ministry’s advice—emphasizing the NLC’s independence as a globally recognized body and a key partner in Nigeria’s tripartite labour system—has exacerbated the situation.
Sources revealed that the national body chose to cancel centralized celebrations in Edo to avert clashes between the legitimate NLC council and state-backed union factions, a move informed by violent confrontations witnessed in Imo State two years ago.
NLC’s Stand
The NLC reaffirmed its stance on safeguarding its independence from government interference and vowed to persist in efforts to resolve the Edo crisis while standing firmly with workers.
“Our solidarity is with the workers, and we will continue to defend their rights and the autonomy of the labour movement,” the Congress stated.
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