NLC to Edo Government: “Stop Interference in Union Matters”

By Chinedu Echianu

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a stern warning to the Edo State Government over attempts to interfere in the internal governance of the union ahead of the inauguration of its caretaker committee in Benin City.

In a statement signed by its Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, the NLC accuses the state government of plotting to disrupt the inauguration scheduled for Thursday, August 28, 2025, and issuing threats to members of the caretaker committee.

According to the union, the decision to dissolve the Edo State Council was taken after failed reconciliation efforts involving the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, and other stakeholders.

The Congress alleged that the governor had backed a faction that illegally removed the democratically elected council chairperson, Odion Olaye.

Upah noted that since the formation of the caretaker committee, the government-backed group had continued to issue threats in violation of international labour conventions and Nigerian labour laws, which forbid interference in trade union affairs by government or employers.

The NLC further accused the state of seizing the keys to its secretariat in Benin and warned that any harm to its officials or committee members would be blamed squarely on the governor.

“The conduct of the governor is a huge discredit to the illustrious history of labour associated with the great people of Edo State,” the statement read, recalling the legacies of renowned labour leaders like Pa Michael Imoudu and former NLC president, Adams Oshiomhole.

Reaffirming its independence, the Congress advised the governor to focus on the challenges of governance in the state rather than meddle in union affairs.

“We do not take instructions from him. A word is enough for the wise,” Upah declared.