Olapade Urges Protection of Civic Space Amid Economic Hardship, Commends Ondo Workers’ Resilience
By Exponent News Akure, May 1, 2025
As Nigeria joined the global community in marking the 2025 International Workers’ Day, the Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ondo State Council, Comrade Ademola Adeniji Olapade, delivered a rousing address at the state celebration held at the Arcade Ground, Igbatoro Road, Akure. He called on government authorities to uphold workers’ rights, protect the civic space, and tackle growing economic and security challenges threatening the welfare of Nigerians.
Speaking before a gathering of unionists, civil servants, and government dignitaries, Olapade praised the unwavering spirit and contributions of workers to nation-building. “Workers’ Day is not just ceremonial,” he emphasized. “It is a solemn reminder of the enduring struggle for justice, equity, and the dignity of labour.”
Themed “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” this year’s celebration, Olapade noted, is a call to safeguard the rights of labour and resist any form of repression. He lamented that policies during economic downturns often shrink civic space and silence dissent, calling instead for peaceful protest, collective bargaining, and open dialogue.
He charged workers’ unions and civil society groups to remain vigilant and proactive, saying, “Reclaiming the civic space also demands digital engagement, transparency, and renewed advocacy to ensure labour’s voice remains bold and protected.”
Olapade commended Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his inclusive governance and recent pro-labour decisions, including the approval of a N73,000 minimum wage—exceeding the federal benchmark of N70,000—and a N30,000 flat increase in retirees’ pensions. He urged the governor to extend these benefits to workers at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, and the University of Medical Sciences, Ondo, who are yet to benefit.
The NLC leader passionately appealed for the immediate clearance of six-month salary arrears owed workers at Rufus Giwa Polytechnic and called for full implementation of state budgetary subventions to all tertiary institutions.
On national issues, Olapade condemned rising insecurity in rural Ondo, particularly attacks on farmers by armed herdsmen. “Our farmlands must be safe,” he declared, urging security agencies to take decisive action.
He further proposed price control mechanisms to combat inflation and urged for targeted interventions to cushion economic hardship on workers and the public.
Olapade also acknowledged the success of the 2024 workers’ promotion exercise, commending the Head of Service for the prompt implementation while encouraging the government to ensure consistency in future exercises.
He lauded the bulk payment of pension gratuities up to 2015 for state retirees and 2013 for local government pensioners, urging sustained monthly funding to clear backlogs and restore dignity to post-service life.
In the education sector, Olapade celebrated the employment of over 2,000 new teachers and the recent elevation of primary school teachers to Grade Level 16. He called for further reforms, including the creation of a “Headmaster General” role, raising head teachers’ allowance from N400 to at least N10,000, and extending service years to 65 for willing educators.
The media industry also received attention, with the NLC chair appealing for the listing of OSRC on cable networks and legal reforms to elevate Owena Press PLC to agency status. He called for the appointment of a professional journalist as a Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information.
Health workers’ welfare was another highlight, as Olapade appealed for the payment of outstanding hazard allowances. “These frontline professionals deserve recognition for their sacrifices,” he said.
He expressed concern over the Alagbaka staff quarters redevelopment plan, warning against displacement of civil servants without proper resettlement. He urged the government to engage in transparent consultations with affected workers.
Touching on union matters, Olapade reflected on the peaceful leadership transition within the Ondo NLC following the retirement of Comrade Oladele Amoko. He thanked workers for their trust and pledged to defend their interests with integrity.
Concluding his address, Olapade emphasized unity and solidarity as the bedrock of labour’s strength. “Let us continue to stand together and speak with one voice in pursuit of a fairer and more secure society,” he said. “Soro soke!”
