The Kogi State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has urged politicians in the state to shun desperate practices ahead of the November 11th governorship election in the state.
The Chairman of the state council, Comrade Gabriel Amari, gave the advice on Monday in his speech at the 2023 May Day (Workers’ Day) celebration at General Muhammadu Buhari Square, Lokoja.
He said: “Electioneering campaigns are avenues for candidates to market their programmes and showcase their abilities to lead the people, therefore, politicians and their supporters must imbibe the culture of tolerance and respect for the rule of law.”
He stressed that Nigerians expect the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct a credible election in the state to help build a better image for them.
Amari called on the workers to come out en masse to vote for the candidate who can deliver good governance and provide enabling business environment.
He, however, reiterated the non partisan status of the Union, adding that NLC remains a strong advocate of free and fair elections.
Earlier, the Deputy Governor of the state, Edward Onoja felicitated and commended them for their diligence, sacrifice and contributions to the development of the State.
In a Statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Promise Emmanuel, the Deputy Governor noted that their efforts are largely responsible for the greatness of the country and the respect Nigeria now commands in the comity of nations.
He urged workers to raise the bar of their trade for the greater productivity and prosperity of Kogi State and assures that Government will continue to improve their welfare and working conditions.
He also appreciated them for keeping the economic wheels of Kogi State going strong amidst scarce resources, wishing them the best of this year’s Celebration.
Historically, May Day, other wise knowns ad International Workers’ Day is intended to honour workers sentenced to death following the 1876 Haymarket square Riot in Chicago, Illinois, USA which was first marked in Nigeria in 1980.
Various labour unions in the state, including members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Kogi State Council conducted match pass at the occasion.
