By Ben Ogbemudia, Abuja

Workers from 34 affiliate unions of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State have declared that Comrade Odion Olaye is no longer the state chairman of the NLC. They have also cautioned the NLC National President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, to act with neutrality in the ongoing leadership dispute.

The Edo State Council of the NLC dismissed recent claims made by Olaye, describing him as an “erstwhile chairman” whose tenure had effectively ended following a vote of no confidence.

Speaking on the matter, the current chairman of the Edo NLC, Comrade Bernard Joman, disclosed that the vote of no confidence was passed by 34 out of the 37 affiliate unions during a state executive meeting at the Labour Secretariat.
Joman further explained that Olaye’s ousting was inevitable, citing his controversial tenure as the chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), where he served for over 22 years without an election.

“Olaye has been removed, and a new chairman, Comrade Saturday Oamen, has been duly elected,” Joman stated.
Progress Under New Leadership
Joman highlighted significant progress made under the new leadership, including successful negotiations with the Edo State Government on the domestication of the ₦70,000 minimum wage. According to him, a committee is finalizing the documents that will serve as a template for the new salary structure.
He further accused Olaye of abandoning his responsibilities, claiming, “Mr. Olaye has been hiding in Abuja for over three months and lacks the constitutional authority to convene any state administrative or executive council meetings. His self-serving actions have undermined workers’ welfare in Edo State.”
The Edo NLC leadership urged the national leadership of the union to remain objective and avoid taking sides for personal gain.
“For the sake of clarity, Mr. Olaye should desist from parading himself as Edo NLC chairman. His actions are deceitful and capable of causing a breach of public peace,” the statement read.
The Edo NLC reassured workers that the new executive is committed to advancing the interests of workers and elevating Edo State’s standing within the labor movement nationwide.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has pledged to rid the state of criminals and their activities, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and order.
The governor made the bold declaration on Monday during the swearing-in ceremony of key appointees at the Government House, Benin City.

Prominent among the newly inaugurated officials are Emmanuel Okoebor as Commissioner for Finance, Paddy Iyamu as Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and Friday Ibadin, a retired Commissioner of Police, as Coordinator of the Edo Security Network.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua in Statement, quoted him to have charged the appointees to prioritize the state’s interests above personal ambitions, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts to tackle insecurity, revamp education, and strengthen Edo’s financial base.

“Our message to criminals is simple: Edo State will no longer harbor you. With the appointment of CP Ibadin, we are sending a clear signal—criminality will not be tolerated,” the governor declared.

Turning to the state’s finances, Okpebholo urged Okoebor to bring his banking expertise to bear in managing the treasury effectively.
“We didn’t pick you off the streets. Your experience must drive reforms that safeguard public funds and support our development agenda,” he said.
The governor also lauded Iyamu’s contributions to education, urging him to channel state resources into building a more robust educational system that reflects Edo’s vision for progress.
Responding on behalf of the appointees, Okoebor pledged unwavering dedication to the governor’s five-point agenda and assured Edo people of their resolve to deliver impactful results.
The ceremony drew notable attendees, including Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Secretary to the State Government Barr. Musa Ikhilor, Chief of Staff Gani Audu, Head of Service Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, and other dignitaries.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has dissolved the Local Government Service Commission with immediate effect, signaling a fresh push to overhaul public service delivery in the state.

The dissolution, announced as part of broader reforms, aims to improve transparency, eliminate inefficiencies, and reposition the Commission for optimal performance.

In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo reassured staff and citizens that the move would not disrupt ongoing operations. Instead, it marks the beginning of a strategic restructuring process to deliver a more effective and accountable local government system.

“This step is necessary to breathe new life into our Local Government Service Commission,” the governor said. “We are committed to building a structure that delivers quality service and supports our vision for progress in Edo State.”

Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s focus on transparency, efficiency, and people-centered governance. He promised timely updates on the restructuring process, urging stakeholders to support the reforms for sustainable development.