Edo State labour unions resolve leadership disputes to strengthen workers rights and industrial harmony.
Organised Labour in Edo State has successfully resolved a protracted dispute over the recognition of the Nigeria Labour Congress caretaker committee as the legitimate representative of the congress in the state, marking a new dawn for the local labour movement.
The historic resolution was formally announced in a joint press statement issued in Benin City on Sunday, October 25, 2026, by the state councils of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, aiming to foster lasting industrial peace across the region.
This crucial development is expected to strengthen relations between the state government and major labour centres, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria, setting a cooperative tone for future engagements.
Reaffirming Commitment to Edo Workers Welfare
In their joint statement, the labour leaders reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to unity, cooperation, and collaboration in advancing the interests of all workers across Edo State. The unions pledged to strengthen their collective bargaining power and prioritize workers welfare.
Signed by the Chairman of the Edo Nigeria Labour Congress Caretaker Committee, Prof. Monday Lewis Igbafen, and the Trade Union Congress Chairman, Comrade Joseph Wasah, the document stresses the urgent need to put an end to internal disagreements that previously undermined the movement.
The leadership reiterated their determination to work together in the collective interest of employees, emphasizing that unity remains indispensable to the protection of workers rights and the overall advancement of the regional labour movement.
Defending Against Anti Labour Practices
Adhering strictly to the hallowed principle that an injury to one is an injury to all, the coalition resolved to defend the cause of Organised Labour, its leaders, and members against all forms of oppressive practices in the state.
The official statement explicitly mentioned a strong stance against anti-labour practices such as interference, intimidation, harassment, oppression, and repression, ensuring a safer operational environment for union members throughout the region.
Organised Labour also assured Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, of its dedication to responsible and constructive trade unionism, promising active partnership in promoting workforce welfare and supportive government policies.
Key Stakeholder Interventions and Solidarity Visits
The successful resolution was attributed to key national and state stakeholders whose timely interventions helped bridge the gap. Labour leaders expressed deep appreciation to Governor Monday Okpebholo and Nigeria Labour Congress President, Comrade Joe Ajaero.
Special recognition was also extended to Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, and former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole.
Prior to releasing their joint statement, labour leadership paid a solidarity visit to the hospitalized Chairman of the National Union of Electricity Employees state council, Comrade Williams Uwumarogie, who is recuperating from injuries sustained during a recent strike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who resolved the labour leadership dispute in Edo State?
The leadership dispute was successfully resolved by the state councils of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress in Edo State, led by Prof. Monday Lewis Igbafen and Comrade Joseph Wasah.
What did the Edo NLC and TUC pledge in their joint statement?
The unions pledged unity, cooperation, stronger collective bargaining power, a prioritization of workers welfare, and a united defense against anti-labour practices like intimidation and harassment.
Which key figures were thanked for their intervention in Edo State?
Labour leaders thanked Governor Monday Okpebholo, Nigeria Labour Congress President Joe Ajaero, Senator George Akume, Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, and Senator Adams Oshiomhole for their pivotal roles.
Who is Comrade Williams Uwumarogie?
Comrade Williams Uwumarogie is the Chairman of the Edo State Council of the National Union of Electricity Employees, who received a solidarity visit while recuperating from injuries sustained during a recent strike.
