The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State will observe May Day with a peaceful rally demanding the restoration of democratic governance amid the ongoing state of emergency in the oil-rich region. The NLC has canceled the usual centralized celebrations in Rivers, directing all affiliated unions to limit activities to the NLC secretariat premises. This decision reflects the union’s opposition to the emergency rule, which saw the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of a sole administrator, an action the NLC describes as a subversion of democracy.
In a letter dated April 22, 2025, signed by Deputy General Secretary Ismail Bello, the NLC emphasized that the May Day event should be a sober reflection rather than a festive celebration. The rally will focus on advocating for democratic governance, improved welfare for workers, and the people’s yearning for freedom and liberty. The theme for this year’s Workers’ Day across Nigeria is “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” with Rivers State’s event carrying a special emphasis on rebuilding civic leadership and safeguarding workers’ rights in a democratic environment.
The NLC has also condemned the emergency rule as unconstitutional and a dangerous overreach of executive power, warning that it threatens Nigeria’s federal structure and could lead to economic hardship and insecurity in the state. The union has called on President Bola Tinubu to revoke the declaration of emergency and respect constitutional limits.
Overall, the NLC’s May Day rally in Rivers State is set to be a strong pro-democracy demonstration amidst political tensions and concerns over civil liberties under the current emergency administration.