NLC cancels Workers Day Celebrations in Rivers, Edo over crisis, imposition of Sole Administrator

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has cancelled its centralised May Day celebrations in both Rivers and Edo states, citing the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers and alleged political meddling in the affairs of its Edo State council.

News360 Nigeria reports that the national leadership of the NLC had directed all affiliated industrial unions in Rivers State to hold Workers’ Day activities within the premises of the state NLC secretariat.

Similarly, unions in Edo State were instructed to mark the day independently at their various union secretariats.

This directive was conveyed through separate letters addressed to the NLC chairmen in both states and dated April 22, 2025.

The letters were signed by Ismail Bello, the Deputy General Secretary of the NLC.

The union firmly condemned the emergency rule in Rivers, which saw the appointment of a sole administrator, insisting on the reinstatement of the democratically elected government.

In Edo, the NLC is battling with the state administration over alleged interference and the creation of factions within its state council.

In the letter sent to Rivers State NLC Chairman, Alex Agwanwor, the NLC stated:

“In line with our tradition, Workers’ Day will be commemorated on May 1, 2025, across the 36 states and the FCT, with this year’s theme being ‘Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship’”

“However, in view of the peculiar situation in Rivers State, this occasion should be marked by sober reflection, calling for the return of democratic governance and prioritizing the people in leadership.”

The union directed that a peaceful rally be organised within the NLC secretariat premises, involving all affiliate members, carrying messages demanding democratic rule, better welfare for workers, and freedom for the people.

Sources in Rivers disclosed that labour leaders in the state have welcomed the directive. It was also gathered that the Trade Union Congress (TUC) state council expressed readiness to join the NLC at its secretariat for a joint event in support of the national push for the restoration of democratic institutions in the state.

In Edo State, a similar letter was sent to NLC Chairman Olaye Odion, directing all unions to independently celebrate May Day in their respective offices.

The national leadership assured that it remains committed to resolving the ongoing leadership crisis within the state council and urged members to ensure a peaceful Workers’ Day.

Meanwhile, the NLC has dismissed as fake an unauthorised circular allegedly issued by someone claiming to be the “Acting State Secretary” of the Edo NLC, directing workers to attend a government-organised parade on May 1, 2025. In a statement dated April 26, 2025, Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello clarified that there’s no such position within the NLC structure and described the individual as an impostor with questionable motives.

The union reiterated its stance that May Day is a workers’ celebration and not a government affair.

It also warned that no worker is under any obligation to attend any government-organised parade, adding that threats of sanctions for non-attendance are unacceptable and a form of intimidation.

Bello assured workers that the NLC would defend its independence and stand by the workers in Edo State.

The lingering crisis between the Edo State Government and the NLC stems from the government’s rejection of Odion’s leadership, citing his political comments during the build-up to last year’s governorship election.

The state government allegedly created factions within the state council and rebuffed attempts by the national leadership of the NLC and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to mediate.

Despite the ministry’s advice against government interference in NLC affairs, nothing substantial has changed.

A senior NLC official told Vanguard that the decision to cancel the centralised May Day event in Edo was to avoid possible violent clashes between the NLC-recognised state council and government-backed labour leaders, similar to what happened in Imo State two years ago.