May Day 2025 Nigeria: NLC Cancels Celebrations in Rivers and Edo

May Day 2025 Nigeria: NLC Cancels Celebrations in Rivers and Edo 

 

As the world celebrates May Day 2025, Nigerian workers face a harsh reality.

In Rivers and Edo States, political interference has forced the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)

to cancel official celebrations marking a troubling chapter for democracy and labor rights in Nigeria.

 

The world marks International Workers’ Day,

Nigerian workers are facing an unexpected setback in two politically sensitive states Rivers and Edo.

In a decision that has stirred both controversy and support,

the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has cancelled centralized May Day celebrations in these states. 

The reasons? Political interference, erosion of democratic processes, and, in the case of Rivers, the imposition of an emergency rule.

This unprecedented action by Nigeria’s foremost labor body is not just a protest it is a bold message about the state of governance.

The sanctity of unionism, and the rights of workers to celebrate free from political intimidation.

 

Why the NLC Took a Stand: Governance vs Labor Freedom

 

The Nigeria Labour Congress, under the leadership of its president,

Comrade Joe Ajaero, has taken a firm stand to cancel the usually vibrant May Day activities. 

The directive affected two key states Rivers and Edo where political tensions have seeped deeply into the affairs of the organized labor movement.

According to Ajaero, the NLC could not in good conscience allow its members to celebrate under an environment that stifles freedom,

manipulates unions, and compromises democracy.

 

 “May Day 2025 Nigeria is not just about parades and music it’s a day to honor labor.

When democracy is under threat, workers must rise to protect it,” he stated.

 

Rivers State: Emergency Rule Sparks Uproar

 

Rivers State has found itself in the eye of a political storm following the federal government’s controversial imposition of emergency rule. 

The declaration, which saw the dismissal of democratic structures in the state,

has been condemned widely not only by political analysts but also by civil society groups and now, labor unions.

The appointment of a sole administrator to oversee the affairs of the state,

bypassing elected representatives, has been labeled a dictatorial overreach. 

The NLC insists that such a move is unconstitutional and endangers Nigeria’s fragile democracy.

 

A Peaceful Resistance

In response, the NLC directed its members in Rivers to shelve the usual large-scale May Day rally. 

Instead, workers were instructed to converge at the Rivers State Council of the NLC for a peaceful gathering focused on democracy, welfare, and freedom.

“The message is simple,” said a unionist in Port Harcourt.

“We want democracy restored, and we want to work under a government that respects our rights, not dictates our fate.”

 

Edo State: Political Meddling Undermines Workers’ Rights

 

While Rivers struggles with emergency governance, Edo State’s issue is rooted in what the NLC describes as “chronic political interference.”

 Allegations of manipulation, suppression of union activities,

and even imposition of unauthorized leadership have rocked the NLC Edo State Council.

At the center of the controversy is a circular allegedly issued by an “Acting State Secretary” instructing workers to attend a government-organized May Day event. 

The national leadership of the NLC quickly flagged the document as fake and warned its members against falling into what they described as a trap meant to delegitimize the labor movement.

 

Independent Celebrations Encouraged

To avoid confrontation and chaos, the NLC instructed all affiliate unions in Edo to celebrate

May Day 2025 Nigeria quietly and independently within their union premises. 

The emphasis was clear: no worker should be coerced to participate in a politically controlled gathering.

“It’s not just about where we celebrate,” said a member of the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT).

 “It’s about ensuring that our voices remain free, and that our unions are not turned into political puppets.”

 

The Bigger Picture: A Battle for Democratic Space

The NLC’s decision goes beyond just two states.

It touches the core of what the labor movement stands for freedom, equality, and democratic rights.

By withdrawing from public May Day events in Edo and Rivers, the NLC has drawn a line between state power and labor autonomy.

 

Joint TUC and NLC Statement

In a powerful joint declaration, the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) demanded the immediate end to emergency rule in Rivers State.

The statement warned that the current political climate could trigger wider unrest, including strikes,

economic stagnation, and erosion of public trust in governance.

They urged President Bola Tinubu to choose dialogue over dictatorship.

“We are not enemies of the government,” the statement read.

“We are partners in nation-building, but our independence must be respected.”

 

A Call for Constitutional Order

Legal experts and constitutional analysts have also weighed in,

expressing concern over the implications of the federal government’s actions in Rivers.

Many argue that the state of emergency bypasses legal provisions and sets a dangerous precedent for future political conflict.

The NLC’s call is clear: return to constitutional governance,

respect union autonomy, and ensure that workers are not used as pawns in political chess games.

 

Economic Consequences Loom

Beyond the legal and political implications, there are real economic consequences to the crisis. 

Reports from Rivers indicate that civil servants have started experiencing delayed salary payments due to the governance vacuum. 

Infrastructure projects are on hold, and the local economy is beginning to feel the pressure.

Union leaders warn that the longer the crisis persists, the harder it will be for the economy to recover. 

Investors are wary, confidence is low, and the social mood is tense.

 

Human Side of the Crisis: Workers Speak Out

For the average Nigerian worker in Rivers and Edo,

the cancellation of May Day is more than a news headline it’s a painful reminder of lost dignity. 

Many workers rely on the day to voice their concerns, press for wage increases, and receive recognition for their efforts.

“I’ve attended every May Day since 2006,” said Mary Okoye, a midwife in Benin City.

 “This year, I’ll be spending it at our union’s office, reflecting on how politics keeps ruining everything.”

Others see the NLC’s move as a step in the right direction. 

“At least someone is speaking truth to power,” said James Ibiama, a construction worker in Rivers.

“Maybe now they’ll stop treating us like nobodies.”

 

The Global Context: How Other Countries Celebrate May Day

While Nigeria grapples with political interference,

workers across the globe are celebrating May Day with colorful parades, speeches, and solidarity marches. 

From Paris to Manila, labor unions are using the day to push for higher wages, better conditions, and social justice.

Nigeria’s situation stands in stark contrast, with its labor day marred by power struggles and democratic backsliding. 

This contrast has not gone unnoticed, especially among international labor observers.

 

A Message to Government: Respect Labor or Risk Unrest

Labor analysts say the government should take the NLC’s move seriously.

It is a warning shot that, if ignored, could lead to mass mobilization. 

History shows that Nigeria’s labor unions have played decisive roles in national transformation

from the fight against fuel subsidy removal to resistance against military rule.

This moment, they argue, could be another turning point if authorities do not act with wisdom.

 

May Day Without Parades, But Not Without Purpose

May Day 2025 in Rivers and Edo may lack the drums, banners, and parades usually seen,

on this day, but it carries a more profound meaning a message of resistance, unity, and the undying spirit of the Nigerian worker.

The NLC’s cancellation of centralized events is not a retreat but a redirection. 

It urges workers to remember why May Day exists in the first place:

to honor labor, fight oppression, and stand tall in the face of injustice.

Do you believe workers’ rights should never be compromised? 

Share this article and join the call for the restoration of democracy and labor independence in Nigeria. 

Follow NIGPOST for the latest updates on national labor and political developments.

 

Author:Emeka Ikenna

Date:May 5, 2025