As workers across Nigeria marked May Day with celebrations and reflections on labour rights, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) used the occasion to raise a critical concern—the escalating political crisis in Rivers State. In a powerful statement delivered during the Workers’ Day rally in Abuja on May 1, 2025, the labour union called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate and decisive action to restore stability and governance in the oil-rich state, describing the situation as a “state of emergency in waiting.”
Speaking at the Eagle Square gathering, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the growing political instability in Rivers State, which has been characterized by clashes between rival political factions, legislative dysfunction, security threats, and a breakdown in governance. He warned that the crisis, if left unchecked, could spiral into a full-blown emergency with national implications.
Rivers State in Turmoil
Rivers State has been embroiled in deep political unrest following the protracted conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The political fallout between the two former allies has polarized the state’s political landscape and brought governance to a virtual standstill.
Several lawmakers loyal to the former governor have attempted to impeach Governor Fubara, sparking street protests, legislative walkouts, and the deployment of security forces to the State Assembly complex. Reports of intimidation, threats against civil servants, and irregularities in the allocation of state resources have further worsened the situation.
Labour leaders argue that these developments have created a hostile and unsafe environment for workers and residents alike. “What is happening in Rivers is no longer a political disagreement; it is a full-blown governance crisis,” Ajaero said. “Workers are unable to perform their duties without fear, and institutions are paralyzed. The Federal Government cannot afford to be silent.”
Tinubu Urged to Act
In his May Day address, the NLC President directly appealed to President Tinubu to use his constitutional powers to de-escalate the crisis and protect the people of Rivers State. “We call on President Tinubu, as the Commander-in-Chief and custodian of the democratic order, to intervene now. Nigeria cannot afford another flashpoint of conflict, especially in a state as critical as Rivers,” Ajaero declared.
He urged the President to initiate peace talks, mediate between the warring political factions, and, if necessary, impose federal oversight to restore normalcy. “Let the Presidency take the lead in ensuring peace returns to Rivers. There must be accountability, and there must be a path back to functional governance,” he added.
The NLC also emphasized the need for the judiciary to uphold the rule of law and resist political pressure in adjudicating disputes arising from the crisis. “Let the courts do justice without fear or favour. That is the only way we can preserve democracy and protect the rights of workers and citizens in Rivers State,” Ajaero said.
Labour Rights and Worker Safety
Beyond the political implications, the NLC expressed concern about the welfare and safety of workers in Rivers State, many of whom are caught in the crossfire of the ongoing crisis. There have been reports of harassment, delayed salaries, disrupted public services, and arbitrary redeployments within the state’s civil service.
According to the union, the state’s instability is affecting critical sectors, including education, health, and public administration. “Teachers, nurses, and public servants are being used as pawns in a political game. This is unacceptable,” Ajaero stated. He also called for an immediate audit of the state’s wage payments and the enforcement of labour protection laws.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) echoed the NLC’s concerns, stating that Rivers State workers have been “abandoned in a political battlefield” and calling for the National Assembly to investigate the situation.
Broader May Day Message
While the Rivers State crisis dominated the headlines, the May Day celebrations also served as a platform for broader demands from the labour movement. The NLC and TUC renewed calls for a living wage, improved working conditions, and reforms in Nigeria’s labour laws.
“We appreciate the new minimum wage talks, but we want action, not promises,” Ajaero said. “Inflation is at an all-time high, transportation and food costs are unbearable, and insecurity continues to threaten workers’ lives. Nigerian workers are suffering, and urgent interventions are needed.”
The union leaders also emphasized the importance of job creation and youth employment, calling on the Tinubu administration to accelerate economic reforms and invest in critical infrastructure to stimulate growth.
Looking Ahead
As the sun set on another Workers’ Day, the mood among labour leaders was one of cautious optimism tempered by deep frustration. The urgency of the Rivers State crisis, combined with long-standing grievances about economic hardship and labour rights, has created a sense of urgency across the movement.
In closing his speech, Ajaero reaffirmed the NLC’s commitment to advocating for the welfare of all Nigerian workers. “We will not stand by and watch any part of our country descend into chaos. Rivers State must not become another theatre of conflict. Mr. President, the time to act is now.”
The ball is now in the court of the Federal Government as Nigerians await a clear response to the crisis in Rivers State. Will President Tinubu rise to the challenge and restore order, or will the warnings from the labour unions go unheeded? Only time will tell, but the call from the nation’s workers has been made loud and clear.
