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.
The pressure group national leadership has directed all affiliated industrial unions in Rivers State to organise and limit the celebrations to the state its secretariat.
Similarly, unions in Edo State are to commemorate the day independently at their respective union secretariats.
It was gathered that the directive was issued in separate letters dated April 22, 2025, to the NLC chairmen in both states, which were signed by the Deputy General Secretary of the group, Ismail Bello.
The pressure group strongly opposes the emergency rule in Rivers State, which involved appointing a sole administrator, and has called for the reinstatement of the elected government.
In Edo State, the NLC is at odds with the current administration over alleged interference and the creation of factions within the state council.