A faction within the labour movement in Osun State, the Association of Concerned Local Government Workers, on Friday held a May Day rally where its leadership urged political heads of local government councils to prioritise workers’ welfare.

The group also directed its members to support the candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the Osun governorship election, Bola Oyebamiji, and work towards his victory.

At the rally held at the Olorunda Local Government Area premises in Osogbo, various groups of formal and informal workers participated in activities, including a march past.

Members of the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme also took part in the event, while the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria in the state, Samuel Idowu, received the salute.

In his address, the coordinator of the group, Adedayo Adekunle, called for the abolition of casualisation in government establishments, describing it as exploitative and discouraging to skilled workers.

He stressed the need for permanent employment opportunities, improved workplace safety, and stronger engagement between workers and the government to prevent industrial disputes.

Adekunle added that the association had assessed the APC candidate and found him suitable, hence the directive for members to support his candidacy in the upcoming poll.

Speaking at the event, Idowu assured workers that their welfare remained a priority, pledging continued efforts to ensure prompt payment of salaries, improved working conditions, and capacity development.

He highlighted achievements by council administrations, including payment of arrears, empowerment programmes, road rehabilitation, and support for security agencies.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress in the state held a separate May Day celebration at another venue in Osogbo.