The Rivers State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has officially endorsed the Interim State Working Committee of the Labour Party, led by Gogo Wellington. This move is seen as a significant development in the state’s political landscape.
During a courtesy visit to the NLC secretariat in Port Harcourt, the Labour Party’s interim executives met with the Rivers State Chairman of the NLC, Comrade Alex Agwanwor. Agwanwor expressed the NLC’s unequivocal support for the Wellington-led committee, stating that it is the only recognized leadership of the Labour Party in Rivers State. He emphasized that the law establishing the state working committee is clear, and no other group can claim the party’s executive structure in the state.
Agwanwor encouraged the Labour Party’s interim executives to remain focused on their mandate, assuring them of the NLC’s support. He noted that there are individuals attempting to frustrate their efforts but urged them not to be distracted. The NLC chairman emphasized that the Labour Party’s interim executives are the rightful persons to pilot the party’s affairs in Rivers State.
In response, Gogo Wellington, the Chairman of the Interim State Working Committee of the Labour Party, explained that the visit aimed to strengthen ties with the NLC, a key stakeholder in the party. He emphasized the Labour Party’s commitment to advancing the vision and ideals upon which it was founded, as an integral part of the labour movement.
Wellington highlighted the need for a functional working relationship between the Labour Party and the NLC, stressing that the party should not exist without a cordial relationship with the congress. He expressed his intention to bridge the gap between the two organizations, leveraging the NLC’s grassroots presence in all 23 local government areas of the state.
The Labour Party is working towards restructuring and forming its structures from the state level down to local government areas and wards. Wellington assured the NLC of a strong and cooperative relationship with the party’s new executive committee, emphasizing that the NLC, Trade Union Congress (TUC), and other partner bodies will be actively involved in the process.
This development is expected to strengthen the Labour Party’s presence in Rivers State, with the NLC’s endorsement providing a significant boost to the party’s interim executives. As the party moves forward with restructuring and forming its structures, the cooperation between the Labour Party and the NLC is likely to play a crucial role in shaping the state’s political landscape.
