The African Democratic Congress, ADC, governorship candidate in Osun State, Najeem Salaam, has condemned the divisions within the labour movement in the state, blaming the Accord and the All Progressives Congress, APC, for fuelling disunity.
The allegation was contained in a statement signed by the Director-General of Sala’s Governorship Campaign Council, Segun Olanibi, a copy of which was obtained in Osogbo on Saturday.
The development came after a separate May Day celebration organised by a faction within the labour movement, the Association of Concerned Local Government Workers.
The group, at an event held at the Olorunda local government council area Secretariat, on Friday, called on political leaders across local government councils to show more commitment to workers’ welfare.
The association also tasked its members to support the All Progressives Congress candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, in the forthcoming governorship election and work for his victory.
Formal and informal workers dressed in uniform took part in the rally, which included several presentations.
In reaction, Salaam said the emergence of parallel celebrations allegedly aligned to political interests is troubling and detrimental to the unity of workers.
“Workers’ Day is a day of unity, not separation. It is a day to reflect on the dignity of labour, the struggles of workers, and our common commitment to a better future.
“It is both unfortunate and unacceptable to see workers divided along political lines.”
The Accord and APC were exploiting divisions in the labour movement for political purposes, Salaam said, and this was weakening the collective strength of workers.
He said disunity weakens the ability of workers to hold those in authority to account and to demand better welfare.
But the ADC candidate promised workers that he would respect and protect labour unions from political interference if he becomes the administrator.
“My administration will restore unity in the labour movement by creating an enabling environment where workers can freely organise, engage and advocate, without fear or interference,” he said.
He said his government would prioritise workers’ welfare, ensure timely payment of salaries and pensions and institute a transparent and inclusive system of engagement with labour groups.
