The Governorship Candidate of the African Democratic Congress in Osun State, Najeem Salaam, has condemned the division among labour unions in the state, accusing the Accord Party and the All Progressives Congress of fuelling unrest within the labour movement.
Salaam stated this in a statement signed by the Director-General of his Governorship Campaign Council, Segun Olanibi, a copy of which was obtained in Osogbo on Friday.
PUNCH Online reports that a faction in the Labour Movement in Osun State, the Association of Concerned Local Government Workers, on Friday held a May Day celebration where its leadership called on political heads in various local government councils to be more committed to workers’ welfare.
The association also directed its members to support the candidate of the APC in the Osun governorship poll, Bola Oyebamiji, and work for his victory at the poll.
At the rally held at the premises of Olorunda Local Government Area, Igbona, Osogbo, various groups of formal and informal workers, dressed in a common attire, made presentations.
Describing the situation as troubling and a sign that partisan politics has crept into spaces that should remain united in the interest of workers’ welfare, Salaam said the emergence of parallel celebrations allegedly aligned with different political interests was unhealthy for the labour movement and a disservice to workers in Osun State.
“Workers’ Day is a moment of solidarity, not separation. It is a day to reflect on the dignity of labour, the struggles of workers, and our shared commitment to a better future. To see workers divided along political lines is both unfortunate and unacceptable,” he said.
He accused the Accord Party and the APC of fuelling and exploiting divisions within the labour movement for political gain, noting that such actions weaken the collective strength of workers and undermine their ability to demand accountability and improved welfare.
He, however, assured workers across Osun State that under an ADC-led government, labour unions would be respected, protected, and shielded from political interference.
“My administration will restore unity within the labour movement by creating an enabling environment where workers can organise, engage and advocate freely, without fear or interference. We will prioritise workers’ welfare, ensure prompt payment of salaries and pensions, and establish a transparent and inclusive system of engagement with all labour bodies,” he said.
He added that sustainable development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of division and distrust, urging workers in the state to resist attempts to divide them and remain committed to their shared pursuit of fairness, dignity and economic justice.
Leave a comment