NLC Cancels May Day Celebrations In Rivers And Edo Over Political Tensions.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has cancelled centralised May Day celebrations in Rivers and Edo states, citing the imposition of emergency rule in Rivers and alleged political interference in the affairs of its Edo State council.
In a directive issued by its national leadership, the NLC instructed all affiliated industrial unions in Rivers State to mark the occasion within the premises of the state NLC secretariat. Similarly, unions in Edo State have been directed to commemorate Workers’ Day independently at their respective union secretariats.
The directive was conveyed through separate letters dated 22 April 2025, signed by Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello, and addressed to the NLC chairmen in the two states.
The Congress voiced strong opposition to the emergency rule imposed in Rivers State, which involved the appointment of a sole administrator, and reiterated its demand for the reinstatement of the elected government. In Edo State, the NLC has clashed with the current administration over alleged political meddling and the creation of factions within the state council.
In a letter to Rivers State NLC Chairman, Alex Agwanwor, the organisation reaffirmed its commitment to commemorating Workers’ Day under the theme, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship”, which will be observed across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Meanwhile, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has raised concerns over what it describes as an undue delay by the Supreme Court in scheduling a hearing for the legal challenge against the state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA alleged that the delay may signal apprehension within the judiciary over addressing the constitutional issues raised. The group warned that such reluctance could undermine Nigeria’s constitutional democracy.
Furthermore, HURIWA criticised the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of exploiting the situation to pressure governors from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into switching allegiance or supporting President Bola Tinubu’s potential bid for a second term, under threats of political reprisal.
The developments have added a new layer of tension to Nigeria’s political landscape as Labour and civil rights groups continue to advocate for democratic principles and constitutional integrity.
