The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has cancelled centralized May Day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states, citing the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers and alleged political interference in the affairs of its Edo State council.
The national leadership of the NLC directed all affiliated industrial unions in Rivers State to organise and limit Workers’ Day celebrations to the state NLC secretariat.
It also asked unions in Edo State to commemorate the day independently at their respective union secretariats.
The directive was issued in separate letters dated April 22, 2025, to the NLC chairmen in both states.
The NLC opposed the emergency rule in Rivers State, which involved appointing a sole administrator, and called for the reinstatement of the elected government.
In Edo State, the NLC challenged the current administration over alleged interference and the creation of factions within the state council.
In the letter to Rivers State NLC Chairman Alex Agwanwor, the NLC stated, “In line with our tradition, Workers’ Day will be commemorated on May 1, 2025. This year, congress has finalised arrangements to mark the day with the theme: ‘Reclaiming the Civic Space amid Economic Hardship,’ to be observed across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
“However, given the peculiar circumstances surrounding the subversion of democratic governance in Rivers State, the occasion calls not for fanfare, but for critical reflection on the need to restore democratic governance and prioritise the people in leadership.
“As a democratic organization, we must use this occasion to call for the restoration of democratic rule in Rivers State. Therefore, you are directed to organise a peaceful rally within the premises of the Rivers State Council of the NLC, involving all affiliate members.
“The rally should include messages advocating democratic governance, improved welfare for workers, and the people’s yearning for freedom and liberty.”
In a similar letter to its Edo State Chairman, Olaye Odion, the NLC among others wrote, “Given ongoing efforts to resolve the crisis within the NLC Edo State council and to bring about unity among affiliates, you are directed to inform all affiliates to make independent arrangements to commemorate the 2025 May Day at their respective union offices.
“We assure you that congress will continue its efforts to resolve the crisis as soon as possible and urge all members to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free May Day celebration.”
Recall that the Edo State Government and NLC have had a frosty relationship due to the government’s rejection of Odion’s leadership of the state NLC following perceived political comments in the lead-up to last year’s governorship election.
The government reportedly expressed unwillingness to work with Odion and was accused of engineering factional divisions within the state council.
Attempts by the national leadership of the NLC and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to mediate were allegedly rebuffed by the Edo State Government.
Despite repeated pleas from the NLC to handle the matter internally as an independent body, no progress has been made.
Daily Trust
