The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced the cancellation of centralized Workers’ Day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states, citing political disruptions — including the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers and government meddling in union affairs in Edo.

In official letters dated April 22, 2025, and signed by Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello, the NLC instructed all affiliated unions in Rivers and Edo states to host decentralized Workers’ Day events at their respective union offices instead of large public gatherings.

Rivers State: Resistance to Undemocratic Actions

In Rivers State, the NLC condemned the federal government's imposition of emergency rule and the appointment of a sole administrator, describing the move as a threat to democracy.

In a letter addressed to Rivers NLC Chairman Alex Agwanwor, the Congress emphasized that this year’s May Day, themed “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship”, would serve as a protest to demand the return of democratic governance.

"Given the political situation in Rivers, Workers’ Day should be marked with a peaceful rally at the NLC Secretariat to advocate for democracy, better worker welfare, and civil liberties," the letter stated.

Sources indicate that the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Rivers is also prepared to join the NLC for a joint May Day rally at the secretariat.

Edo State: Ongoing Labour Crisis

In Edo State, the NLC decided to decentralize Workers’ Day events due to internal strife fueled by the state government's alleged interference in union leadership matters. The controversy began when the government refused to recognize Olaye Odion as the legitimate state NLC chairman, following political disagreements during the 2024 governorship election.

The NLC directed Edo affiliates to organize their celebrations independently at union offices, noting efforts are still ongoing to resolve the leadership crisis peacefully.

The NLC also debunked an unauthorized circular, allegedly issued by an impostor claiming to be an "Acting State Secretary," which instructed workers to attend a government-organized parade.

"There is no position known as 'Acting State Secretary' within our structure," the NLC clarified. "Workers should ignore this fake circular, and no one can compel workers to attend any government event."

The NLC firmly stated that Workers’ Day remains a labour event and should not be politicized or hijacked by the government.

Background to the Conflict

Tensions between the Edo State Government and the NLC escalated after authorities reportedly instigated factionalism within the union to weaken Odion's leadership. Mediation attempts by the national NLC and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment were unsuccessful, as the state government allegedly rejected all interventions.

The Ministry of Labour had reminded the Edo State Government of the NLC’s constitutional and international independence but to no avail.

NLC sources revealed that the decision to decentralize May Day celebrations was made to avert any violent confrontation, recalling incidents of violence during the 2023 Workers’ Day in Imo State.