The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), National Executive Council (NEC) confirmed Odion Olaye as the legitimate chairman of the state on Friday, putting an end to the controversy roiling the NLC’s Edo State Chapter.
After returning from the NEC meeting, Olaye briefed reporters in Benin by presenting copies of the decision passed by the NEC in Abuja, which affirmed his legitimacy as the legitimately elected chairman of the NLC Edo State.
In a statement signed by NLC president and secretary Comrade Joe Ajaero and Comrade Emmanuel Ugboaja, respectively, Olaye stated that NEC decided to give the Edo State Government and the police 14 working days, until January 8, 2025, to leave the secretariat premises.
He stated that NEC strongly condemned those fueling crises in the state, particularly the invasion and ransacking of the NLC Edo State secretariat.
He stated that NEC has equally asked all those who invaded the NLC Edo State secretariat to return all confiscated properties to Congress and commit to refraining from further interference in trade union activities.
Ajaero, in the communique, said:”The invasion and ransacking of the NLC Edo State Council Secretariat by the Police and the Governor of Edo State is strongly condemned by NEC.
“This brazen act of impunity included the ransacking of properties and the unlawful removal of items, all in a bid to impose an illegitimate leadership on the workers.
“Failure to comply will compel the Congress to initiate unprecedented measures in defense of workers’ and trade union rights.”
The NLC president added that NEC reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending the rights and welfare of workers and the broader Nigerian populace, stating: “It has come to our attention that some officers of affiliate unions in Edo State are parading themselves as new officers of Congress. This behaviour constitutes a clear act of indiscipline and crude brigandage.”
Ajaero urged all affiliate unions to ensure that none of their members were involved in such an affront against the Congress.
Another letter, signed by the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees (AUPCTRE) Head of Department, Alo Lawrence, cautioned those fueling the crisis in Edo NLC to desist forthwith.
