The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has escalated its intervention in Edo State, dissolving the Egwakhide-led leadership of the Edo State Council and freezing the council’s bank accounts. This decisive action follows allegations of unethical behavior, anti-union activities, and violations of the NLC constitution.
Dissolution and Caretaker Committee
In a letter dated August 11, 2025, addressed to the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the NLC formally announced the dissolution. A five-member Caretaker Committee has been appointed to oversee the state council’s affairs until elections are held. Comrade Lewis Monday Igbafen of ASUU will chair the committee, with other members drawn from NUTGTWN, JUSUN, MWUN, and NUCFRLANMPE.
The NLC’s letter outlined the caretaker committee’s mandate:
- Uphold the NLC constitution.
- Promote the values and traditions of the Congress.
- Conduct affairs with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
- Ensure industrial harmony and effective service to affiliates and members in Edo State.
Bank Accounts Frozen
Further solidifying its control, the NLC has directed all United Bank of Africa (UBA) branches in Edo State to suspend transactions involving the dissolved Edo State Council. A letter dated August 15, 2025, instructs UBA managers to cease honoring any financial transactions originating from the dissolved council or its former officials. The NLC warned that any bank disregarding this directive would be held liable for resulting financial or legal consequences.
Caretaker Committee Strategizing
A source close to Prof. Lewis Monday Igbafen confirmed that the Caretaker Committee is actively strategizing to reposition the Edo State Council of NLC. Their focus is on robustly defending the welfare and rights of all workers in Edo State.
Implications
This move by the national leadership signals a strong stance against perceived misconduct within the Edo State Council. The freezing of bank accounts and appointment of a caretaker committee underscores the NLC’s commitment to enforcing its constitution and ensuring accountability. The coming weeks will be crucial as the Caretaker Committee works to restore stability and prepare for elections to fill the statutory positions within the Edo State Council.
