Our reporter
The Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has appointed Comrade Bernard Joman as its acting chairman following the removal of Comrade Odion Olaye from the role.
The change in leadership was made during an emergency State Executive Committee meeting at the Labour House in Benin City on Monday evening, attended by representatives from 27 of the NLC’s 34 active affiliate unions.
According to union leaders, Olaye’s removal stemmed from allegations of noncompliance with a court ruling that unseated him as the Edo State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), coupled with accusations that he had failed to pay union dues for over two decades.
A letter from the NURTW, signed by State Secretary Godwin Aghimien, affirmed Olaye’s recall, noting he had been replaced by a caretaker committee since 2023.
The NLC’s decision also reflects concerns over what union officials called Olaye’s political affiliations. “Our focus is on protecting the rights of workers, not on aligning with any political agenda,” stated Osahon Omole, Chairman of the Council of the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics.
He emphasised the NLC’s goal of safeguarding its independence from political influence, especially as Edo State prepares for upcoming political transitions.
Olaye, however, insists he remains the legitimate Chairman until 2027 and dismissed the actions against him as politically motivated. In a statement, he said, “No one has removed me. The NLC isn’t an organisation where arbitrary decisions are made without proper authority.”
Meanwhile, Acting Chairman Bernard Joman, representing the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, has promised to prioritize workers’ welfare, stating his commitment to restoring the union’s credibility.
He assured union members that this transition marks a renewed focus on addressing the needs and rights of Edo State’s workforce.
