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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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Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

Published

4 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Inside the Success of Yoruba Cinema’s Biggest Stars

King of the Screen: Why Odunlade, Muyiwa, Femi Adebayo Remain Yoruba Movie Giants

The Yoruba movie industry has continued to produce legendary talents whose influence stretches beyond Nigeria to global audiences. Over the years, some actors have distinguished themselves through consistency, versatility, box office success, and cultural impact.

Among the numerous stars in Nollywood’s Yoruba sector, three actors have remained dominant figures whose names constantly resonate with fans and filmmakers alike — Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo.

Odunlade Adekola: The Street King of Yoruba Cinema

Popularly regarded as one of the most entertaining actors in Nollywood, Odunlade Adekola has built a unique reputation through his energetic delivery, comic timing, emotional depth, and strong connection with grassroots audiences.

From comedy to action and emotional family dramas, the actor has consistently proven his versatility in blockbuster productions. His ability to interpret diverse roles effortlessly has made him a household name across Nigeria.

Industry observers believe his dominance on social media platforms, where his movie clips frequently go viral, has further strengthened his popularity among younger audiences.

Beyond acting, Odunlade has also contributed immensely to mentoring upcoming talents and expanding the commercial value of Yoruba films.

Muyiwa Ademola: The Master Storyteller

For many lovers of indigenous movies, Muyiwa Ademola remains one of the finest storytellers the Yoruba film industry has produced.

Widely respected for producing emotional and morally driven movies, the actor earned massive recognition through classic productions that focused on family values, culture, betrayal, perseverance, and societal lessons.

His calm delivery, deep scripts, and originality have kept him relevant despite changing trends in the entertainment industry.

Film critics often describe Muyiwa Ademola as one of the few actors whose productions combine entertainment with strong cultural education, making his movies timeless among older and younger viewers alike.

Femi Adebayo: The Modern-Day Box Office Force

Femi Adebayo has successfully combined traditional Yoruba storytelling with modern cinematic excellence, helping to project indigenous films to international audiences.

The actor, filmmaker, and producer has recorded major successes with high-budget productions that gained attention on streaming platforms and cinemas.

Known for his professionalism and attention to detail, Femi Adebayo has continued to push Yoruba movies beyond local boundaries while preserving cultural identity.

Entertainment analysts say his ability to blend culture, technology, and quality production has positioned him among the leading faces shaping the future of Yoruba cinema.

Growing Global Influence

The success of these actors reflects the increasing acceptance of indigenous Nigerian content globally. With streaming platforms creating wider access to local movies, Yoruba actors are now gaining international recognition and attracting new audiences.

Fans and stakeholders in the entertainment industry believe the contributions of Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola, and Femi Adebayo have not only sustained Yoruba culture through film but have also elevated Nollywood’s global reputation.

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Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

Published

4 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Olowu Kuta To Yoruba Obas: Uplift Culture And Tradition Of Our Forebears

Eid-el-Kabir: Olowu of Kuta Urges Peace, Unity, Selflessness Among Nigerians

The Olowu of Kuta, HRM Oba Dr. Hammed Makama Oyelude, CON, Tegbosun III, has called on the Muslim Ummah and all Nigerians to make peace, unity, and selflessness their guiding principles as the world marks this year’s Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In his Sallah message, the revered monarch described Eid-el-Kabir as a “highly spiritual occasion that demands dedication, commitment, and selflessness.”

Oba Makama said the period should be used to reflect on societal happenings and promote messages of hope and unity without inciting provocation.

He urged Nigerians to live together harmoniously, irrespective of religious, political, or tribal affiliations, stressing that politicians should exercise restraint and avoid inflammatory rhetoric ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“What should be uppermost in the mind of every patriotic Nigerian is **‘Country first,’” he said.

The monarch also appealed to citizens to remain vigilant in the face of insecurity, reassuring that the armed forces and paramilitary agencies are working round the clock to ensure a smooth and peaceful celebration.

“The price wise men pay for eternal liberty is vigilance. I urge everyone to celebrate moderately and extend a helping hand to the less privileged, widows, and orphans, embracing them as our brothers and sisters,” Olowu Makama added.

He concluded by wishing all Nigerians a peaceful and fulfilling Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

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Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

Published

4 days ago

May 27, 2026

Sahara Weekly

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II Felicitates Muslims on Eid-el-Kabir Celebration

By Adeyemi Obadimu Veron

The Oloworo of Oworosoki Kingdom, Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II, has extended warm greetings and heartfelt felicitations to Muslims across Nigeria and the world at large on the joyous occasion of the 2026 Eid-el-Kabir celebration.

In a statement made available to Newsmen, the revered monarch urged Muslims to embrace the true teachings of Islam by promoting peace, love, unity, sacrifice, and compassion during and after the festive period.

Oba Babatunde Saliu Elebo II noted that Eid-el-Kabir, also known as Salah, remains one of the most significant celebrations in Islam as it symbolizes total obedience, faith, and devotion to Almighty Allah, drawing inspiration from the unwavering sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who demonstrated complete submission to the will of God.

According to the monarch, the Holy Qur’an teaches believers the importance of righteousness, kindness to humanity, tolerance, and support for the less privileged in society. He emphasized that the season should serve as a reminder for all Nigerians to live in harmony irrespective of religion, ethnicity, or political differences.

The royal father further called on Muslims to use the sacred period to pray fervently for peace, stability, economic growth, and sustainable development in Nigeria, stressing that national progress can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and mutual understanding.

Oba Saliu also encouraged the faithful to extend hands of generosity to widows, orphans, and vulnerable members of society, noting that the essence of Eid-el-Kabir goes beyond celebration and feasting, but also reflects the spirit of sharing and caring for humanity as instructed in the Qur’an.

While wishing Muslims a peaceful and memorable Eid celebration, the Oloworo of Oworosoki prayed for divine blessings, prosperity, good health, and continued harmony in homes and communities.

“May this year’s Eid-el-Kabir strengthen our faith, deepen our love for one another, and bring renewed hope and abundant blessings to our nation,” the monarch stated.