A faction within the labour movement in Osun State held a May Day rally on Friday, urging political leaders at the local government level to prioritise workers’ welfare.

The group, identified as the Association of Concerned Local Government Workers, also declared support for the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress, APC, Bola Oyebamiji.

The rally took place at the premises of Olorunda Local Government Council secretariat in Igbona, Osogbo, where workers gathered in various uniformed groups.

A factional chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, ALGON, in the state, Samuel Idowu, received the salute during the parade.

In his address, the coordinator of the group, Adedayo Adekunle, called for an end to casualisation of workers in government establishments.

It is our demand that permanent job offers should be prioritised over offering graduates casual or temporary employment,” he said.

Adekunle described casualisation as “barbaric, enslaving and unattractive to the best brains.”

He also stressed the importance of workplace safety, stating, “Safety at the workplace is not negotiable. All that is required to ensure the safety of employees should be given adequate attention.”

The coordinator added that improved engagement between employers and workers could help prevent industrial disputes.

“Social dialogue prevents strikes, and strikes hurt us all. We advise that you listen more and act faster on workers’ demands,” he said.

On the forthcoming governorship election, Adekunle said the group had assessed the APC candidate and found him suitable.

After thorough assessment of the APC candidate… our association has found him to be a worthy leader. We therefore direct all our members to support him,” he stated.

Addressing the gathering, Idowu assured workers that their welfare remained a priority for local government administrations.

He said council chairmen would focus on prompt payment of salaries, improved working conditions and capacity development.

“Since we assumed office, we have paid salary arrears owed to traditional rulers in the state,” Idowu said.

He added that local governments had also implemented empowerment initiatives and infrastructure projects, including road rehabilitation and support for security agencies.

Participants included both formal and informal sector workers who made presentations during the event.

Members of the Osun Youth Empowerment Scheme, OYES, also took part in a ceremonial march past.

Meanwhile, the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, held a separate May Day celebration at the Fakunle Government Comprehensive High School, Osogbo.