NLC cancels central workers’ day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has cancelled centralised Workers’ Day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states this year due to political instability and interference.

NLC leadership instructed all affiliated unions in Rivers State to observe the May 1 event quietly at the NLC state secretariat, while directing unions in Edo State to mark the day separately at their individual secretariats.

The directives came through separate letters dated April 22, 2025, addressed to NLC chairmen in both states and signed by Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello.

In Rivers, the NLC strongly opposes the declaration of emergency rule and appointment of a sole administrator, demanding a return to democratic governance. In Edo, the union protests what it describes as government interference in the state council’s affairs.

The NLC emphasised in its letter to Rivers State NLC Chairman Alex Agwanwor that this year’s Workers’ Day, themed “Reclaiming the Civic Space amid Economic Hardship,” would focus on advocating for democracy’s restoration rather than celebrations.

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“Given the subversion of democratic governance in Rivers State, this year’s May Day demands sober reflection, not festivities. Therefore, you are directed to hold a peaceful rally within the premises of the NLC council, focusing on democracy, workers’ welfare, and the call for freedom,” the letter stated.

In another letter to Edo State NLC Chairman Olaye Odion, the union instructed affiliated organisations to commemorate the day independently at their union offices, citing ongoing efforts to resolve internal disputes within the Edo State NLC council.

The union assured members that efforts to restore unity would continue and called for peaceful May Day observances in the state.

Tensions between the Edo State Government and NLC have grown following the administration’s refusal to recognise Odion’s leadership due to political disagreements leading up to last year’s governorship election.

The government also faces accusations of fuelling divisions within the NLC council and frustrating mediation attempts by both the NLC’s national body and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.