The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced the cancellation of centralized 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.
According to separate letters dated April 22, 2025, and signed by NLC Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello, the national leadership of the NLC has directed all affiliated industrial unions in Rivers State to organize and limit Workers’ Day celebrations to the state NLC secretariat. Similarly, unions in Edo State are to commemorate the day independently at their respective union secretariats.
The NLC’s decision in Rivers State is in response to the imposition of emergency rule, which involved the appointment of a sole administrator. The labour union has been vocal in its opposition to the move, calling for the reinstatement of the elected government. In a letter to Rivers State NLC Chairman Alex Agwanwor, the NLC stated that the occasion calls for critical reflection on the need to restore democratic governance and prioritize the people in leadership.
In Edo State, the NLC’s decision to cancel centralized celebrations stems from alleged interference and the creation of factions within the state council. The NLC has directed its affiliates in the state to make independent arrangements to commemorate the 2025 May Day at their respective union offices. The union has assured its members that it will continue efforts to resolve the crisis as soon as possible and urged all members to ensure a peaceful and hitch-free May Day celebration.
The NLC has also dismissed a purported circular on Edo State May Day celebrations, which was allegedly issued by an individual claiming to be the “Acting State Secretary” of the NLC Edo State Council. The circular directed workers to attend a Governor’s parade on May 1st, 2025. The NLC described the circular as dubious and fake, stating that the individual behind it is an impostor with questionable motives.
The labour union has reiterated that its earlier directive remains valid, and affiliates in Edo State are to commemorate the 2025 May Day independently in their respective union offices. The NLC has also emphasized its commitment to resolving the Edo State Council crisis and ensuring a united, worker-centric celebration of May Day.
The development has sparked reactions, with sources in Rivers State indicating that labour leaders in the state have welcomed the directive and are enthusiastic about the plan. The state council of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has also expressed willingness to join the NLC at its secretariat for a joint celebration, in alignment with national efforts to restore democratic institutions in the state.
