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WORKERS’ DAY 2018: Beyond the Ceremonial Speeches, the Challenges of Welfare, Rights and Poor Conditions of Workers are high and palpable – CDHR

Published

8 years ago

May 1, 2018

Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has joined the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and all their affiliate bodies, as well as the global community of workers and the international labour movement, in commemorating the International Workers’ Day, 2018. In solidarity with the labour movement in Nigeria and across the world, CDHR joined in the celebration of workers, labourers and the entire working class for their rare resilience, commitment and contributions to socio-economic advancement and national development. CDHR enjoined Government Authorities at all levels, public office holders of conscience, private sector Executives and all Nigerians to respect and promote the rights of workers at all times. Nigeria, as a signatory to international treaties on labour as well as a member of the International Labour Organisation, is obligated to ensure and promote acceptable standards and better conditions for all workers.

Workers’ Day (otherwise Labour Day or May Day) is celebrated annually across the world on May 1 (1st of May) to honour and celebrate workers. This year’s Workers’ Day, comes up on Tuesday, May 1st, 2018, with the theme: “Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement”. The Day has remained significant for providing a platform or an opportunity for the assessment of the environment, conditions and challenges of workers. The Day also provides a critical global opportunity to reflect on the factors that guarantee welfare, freedom, equality and Rights of all workers. May 1st was chosen to be International Workers’ Day to commemorate the 1886 Haymarket Affair in Chicago, USA. On May 1st, there was a general strike on the agitation for eight-hour workday. The strike lasted for days and led to many deaths and injuries; an unidentified person threw a bomb and the police responded by firing on the workers. Hundreds of labour leaders and sympathizers were later rounded-up, some of whom were executed by hanging, after a trial that was seen as a miscarriage of justice.

In a message issued to the media by the National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ekine, Peter Henry, CDHR lamented that Workers’ Day in Nigeria has always been characterised with ceremonial parades and speeches that are often cosmetic and usually failed to address critical challenges of the Nigerian worker; such ceremonial shows usually failed to address the issues of poor conditions of work, poor environment and violations of the rights of the Nigerian worker. This Workers’ Day, 2018 must go beyond the ceremonial speeches and must address the plethora of challenges confronting the Nigerian worker, including the issues of the rights of workers, issue of fair minimum wage, improved work environment, safety and security, pensions, housing, healthcare and insurance, welfare, training, and others.

Workers’ strikes by different sectors have become common occurrences; the present strike by health sector workers has entered its second week amid uncertainty about any hope of suspension soon, as negotiations appear stalled. National minimum wage is not a living wage, nor can it overcome income inequality. It has been a tough labour environment in Nigeria for decades, made worse by a tough economic climate. Any little improvement is talked up despite questions over real betterment; the proposed increase of the national minimum wage, from N18,000 (eighteen thousand naira) to N66,500 (sixty-six thousand, five hundred naira), seen as “a great victory for the workers of this country”, is far from realisable as there is just about ten (10) months before the 2019 general elections.

CDHR decried the unfortunate incidents of Governments’ violation or breach of negotiated agreements with workers, non payment of workers’ salaries and allowances, resulting in economic hardship, servitude and avoidable suicides and deaths. The group recounted the high rate of retrenchment, poor environment for work, poor state of infrastructure, especially energy or power, poor healthcare, lack of housing, poor transport system, general dearth of workers’ welfare, and others, as conditions of subjugation and violation of the rights of workers. These realities reflect excruciating deprivation, hardship and abuse of the dignity of Nigerian workers. A motivated workforce can truly facilitate socio-economic advancement.

CDHR charged Nigerians, to compel the Governments at all levels, especially all the Governors of the States of the federation, to urgently adopt and focus on the improvement of the welfare of workers as ultimate priority; pay all outstanding salaries and allowances owed workers, as well as pay up all benefits and pensions to retirees; promote good and conducive work environment, eradicate all forms of servitude, stop the violation of the rights of workers, especially right to regular payment of wages, not undermining rights to insurance, housing, healthcare, efficient transport, etc. The President and the Governors must demonstrate real commitment, concern and value for the Nigerian worker. Nigerian workers are not slaves and must not be frustrated; professionals and academics must not be frustrated to opt to migrate to other countries in search of opportunities for survival.

CDHR laments that diversion of public funds, corruption and abuse of office by public office holders and poor political leadership have not played any fair role in the lives of workers. Huge sums reported to have been diverted (some of which are still being repatriated from foreign countries) would have advanced the improvement of the welfare of workers. The Group condemned the disposition of the few privileged public office holders to live in affluence at the expense of the tens of millions of working class Nigerians, a disturbing social imbalance. CDHR therefore called for immediate consideration of a comprehensive inclusion of all workers in a national programme that will provide opportunity for all workers to be entitled to improved wages, regular payment of salaries, adequate housing and healthcare. CDHR wished Nigerian workers and others across the world a blissful Workers’ Day, 2018.

Comrade (Barr) Henry Peter Ekine
National Publicity Secretary

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Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

Published

2 days ago

April 2, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Adron Homes Celebrates Visionary Chairman, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King, at 51

The management and staff of Adron Homes and Properties Limited have joined family, friends, associates, and well-wishers across the globe to celebrate their Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing, as he marks his 51st birthday.

In a statement released by the company, the milestone was described as a celebration of an exceptional leader whose vision, resilience, and entrepreneurial brilliance have not only transformed Adron Homes into a household name in Nigeria’s real estate sector but have also redefined affordable housing across the country.

Under his dynamic leadership, Adron Homes has continued to expand its footprint, delivering value-driven residential solutions while empowering thousands of Nigerians with opportunities for home ownership. His commitment to excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction has remained the driving force behind the company’s sustained growth and industry leadership.

The statement further highlighted Aare EmmanuelKing’s passion for nation-building and community development, noting his significant contributions to job creation, youth empowerment, and the promotion of socio-economic development through real estate investments.

“As a leader, mentor, and visionary, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing has consistently inspired a culture of excellence, integrity, and dedication within the organization. His ability to turn bold ideas into reality continues to position Adron Homes as a trailblazer in the industry,” the statement read.

The company expressed profound gratitude for his steadfast leadership and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and sound health as he embarks on another year of impactful achievements.

As he celebrates his 51st birthday, the entire Adron Homes family proudly honours a man whose legacy continues to shape the future of real estate in Nigeria.

Happy 51st Birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing!

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Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu

Published

5 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Oba Ara Releases Emotional Tribute to Late Taiwo Adegbodu

Taofik Afolabi

The gospel music community continues to grieve the painful loss of Taiwo Adegbodu, a beloved figure whose sudden departure left a deep void among fans, colleagues, and loved ones. In response to this loss, renowned gospel minister Rotimi Onimole, popularly known as Oba Ara, has released a moving tribute song that captures both the sorrow of the moment and the enduring legacy of the late singer.

Oba Ara, a proud son of Isale Eko, channels raw emotion throughout the song, using heartfelt lyrics and soul-stirring melodies to reflect on his personal connection with Taiwo Adegbodu. In the tribute, he openly expresses how deeply the news of Adegbodu’s passing shook him, describing it as a painful and unexpected loss that is difficult to come to terms with.

The song goes beyond mourning, it celebrates the life, ministry, and impact of Taiwo Adegbodu. Oba Ara highlights the late artist’s dedication to spreading the gospel through music, his inspiring voice, and the spiritual influence he had on many within and beyond Nigeria. Through powerful verses, he paints a picture of a man who lived for God and touched countless lives through his ministry.

Listeners have described the tribute as both comforting and deeply emotional, as it resonates with the collective grief of the gospel music community. It serves as a reminder that although Taiwo Adegbodu is no longer physically present, his music, message, and legacy will continue to live on.

In honoring his late colleague, Oba Ara not only pays his respects but also offers a source of healing for fans and fellow ministers, using music as a tool to process grief and celebrate a life well lived.

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Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch

Published

5 days ago

March 30, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Buratai, Fagbemi , Shagaya, Olofa, Others Eulogise Olowu Kuta’s Olori On 60th Birthday, Foundation Launch

Eminent personalities across the Nigeria stormed the TFK Event Centre, Bala Mohammed Way, Guzape, Abuja, to celebrate the 60th birthday of Olowu Kuta’s Olori, Queen Jumai Amoke and her Foundation Launch on Saturday 28, March 2026.

From former Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen TY Buratai rtd, to the Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi; Olofa of Offa, HRM Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi. Even top businesswoman and socialite, Chief (Mrs) Bola Shagaya, was in attendance.

Other dignitaries were newly promoted Deputy Inspector-General of Police and former AIG Zone 2 , Lagos , Adegoke Fayoade, Major General Abdumalik, Major General Samuel Adebayo rtd (Fmr CDI);

Major General Anthony Omozoje rtd (Fmr Copp);

Alhaji Tajudeen Owoyemi (Asiwaju of Offa and CEO Radisson Hotel Nigeria;

Dr Waheed Olagunju, former managing director of Bank of Industry, Oniba of Iba, Lagos State, HRM Oba Dr Suleiman Raji ;

Justice Falola, Olu of Ile-Ogbo , Oba Adetoyese amongst many traditional rulers and captains of industry too numerous to mention.

Speaking at the occasion, the Chief Host, Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr Adekunle Oyelude Makama, CON , Tegbosun iii, who is also the husband of the celebrant commended Queen Jumai for ‘ her slender arms full of kindness’ to establish such humanitarian Foundation, ‘Amoke Children and mother in Need Foundation’ at a time Nigerians are going through economic crisis occassioned by the global meltdown.

Olowu also commended her steadfastness and love for the less privileged and downtrodden.

The monarch refrenced the task before his wife’s humanitarian gesture said her best is yet to come.

” Olori Amoke Jumai, I celebrate you. You will celebrate 70, 80, 90 and continue to shine as you continue to put a smile on people’s faces. I love you, “Olowu Kuta added.

To Lt Gen Buratai, a former army chief and former Nigerian Ambassador to Benin Republic, the reward of hard work is more work.

Buratai, who also doubles as Balogun Agba of Owu Kuta, a chieftaincy title reserved for a generalismo congratulated Queen Jumai for attaining the age of 60 in good health.

The retired army General said he’s not surprised by the turn out of eminent personalities across the country to celebrate the Olowu Kuta’s Olori because she merited it through her hospitality to all, adding that Allah the most merciful, most beneficial would accept all her act of ibadah.

The minister of Justice, Prince Fagbemi, was full of praises for Queen Jumai for deeming it fit to have a place in her heart to accommodate the needy and less privileged in ‘our society.’

Prince Fagbemi urged the guests to contribute generously to support the Foundation in order to continue to alleviate poverty and put a smile on the faces of the people.

” I congratulate you on your 60th birthday and Foundation Launch. I wish you many happy returns of the day and many more fruitful services to the country and motherland”, Prince Fagbemi added.

The celebrant, Queen Jumai who was grining from ear to ear thankfully said she was excited by the turn out and the response of the people to her foundation.

Queen Jumai, however, promised to continue to use her resources and donations received for the good of the needy and less privileged in the society.

” I want to appreciate my own Kabiesi Olofa of Offa , for his presence and im I’m using him as a point of contact to all other Kabiesis present here, the minister of justice and Attorney-General, you’re welcome, sir; Mrs Bola Shagaya, I salute your enterprise, Lt Gen Buratai, I’m grateful, sir; DIG Fayoade, Justice Falola and other dignitaries too numerous to mention, I thank you, all. To my darling husband, Kabiesi Olowu , I thank you immensely for your support. And to my family and friends, I thank you , all. E se pupo!”, she said.