The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has cancelled centralised May Day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states, citing political interference and the imposition of emergency rule.
The NLC’s national leadership directed all affiliated unions in Rivers State to hold low-key Workers’ Day commemorations at the NLC state secretariat. In Edo State, unions were instructed to organise celebrations independently at their various union offices.
The directive was communicated through separate letters dated April 22, 2025, signed by NLC Deputy General Secretary, Ismail Bello, and addressed to the NLC chairmen in both states.
The NLC condemned the appointment of a sole administrator in Rivers State, describing it as a subversion of democratic governance. It also called for the immediate reinstatement of the elected government.
In Edo State, the labour union accused the state government of interfering in its internal affairs and fostering division within its council, following the rejection of Olaye Odion’s leadership after last year’s governorship election.
In a letter to Rivers State NLC Chairman Alex Agwanwor, the NLC said, “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.”
Similarly, the NLC’s letter to Edo State Chairman Olaye Odion stated, “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.”
The NLC assured members that efforts to resolve the crisis would continue, urging all unions to ensure a peaceful and orderly Workers’ Day celebration.
The NLC and the Edo State Government have been at loggerheads following accusations that the government engineered factions within the state labour council and rejected mediation attempts by the Federal Ministry of Labour and the NLC’s national body.
Despite repeated calls from the NLC for the government to respect its independence, no resolution has yet been reached.
