Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The National Union of Textile, Garment and Tailoring Workers of Nigeria has dissolved its Edo State Executive Committee and suspended all union activities in the state indefinitely, citing gross insubordination and disregard for directives from the union's national leadership. The decision, which took immediate effect, was reached by the union's National Administrative Council during a meeting held on Saturday, July 18, 2026, following a review of a seminar organised by the Edo State leadership in Benin City on July 16, according to a letter dated July 20, 2026, signed by the union's General Secretary, Ali Baba.
The crisis erupted after the Edo State Chairman, Decency Ochie, and the dissolved executive recognised an individual claiming to be the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Edo State, despite the existence of an NLC Caretaker Committee recognised by the national leadership. In a strongly worded letter, the union's National Administrative Council expressed grave concern over the Edo chapter's actions, stating: "Despite previous warnings and clear directives from the National Secretariat, you deliberately invited and accorded recognition to the individual claiming to be the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State, whereas you are fully aware that the NLC has a Caretaker Committee in the State, to which all affiliates are expected to accord recognition and allegiance." The union described the action as a breach of discipline, constituting "a clear act of insubordination, disregard for the directives of the National Leadership, and conduct capable of bringing the name and reputation of the Union into disrepute".
Following its deliberations, the National Administrative Council announced the immediate dissolution of the Edo State Executive Committee and the indefinite suspension of all union activities in the state until further notice. The union also directed that no member of the dissolved executive should represent or act on behalf of the union in any capacity pending further directives from the National Secretariat. The NUTGTWN disclosed that the Nigeria Labour Congress and other relevant bodies had been notified of the decision for necessary action. Reaffirming its commitment to discipline, the union stated that it "remains a disciplined and responsible affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and will not condone any action capable of undermining the decisions of its leadership or tarnishing the image of the union".
The decision marks the latest twist in the escalating crisis within the Edo NLC, which has been plagued by leadership disputes and factional conflicts. The Edo NLC Caretaker Committee, which is recognised by the national leadership, has been working to resolve the crisis and restore order in the state council. However, the Textile Union's action effectively paralyses the state chapter of the union and underscores the deepening divisions within the organised labour movement in Edo State.
The dissolution and suspension have significant implications for workers in the textile, garment, and tailoring sectors in Edo State, as their union activities have been brought to a halt. The union's National Administrative Council has not indicated when the suspension might be lifted, leaving the fate of the Edo State chapter and its members in limbo. The NUTGTWN's firm stance reflects a broader effort by the national leadership to enforce discipline and assert its authority over its affiliate unions, particularly in states where internal conflicts have threatened to undermine the cohesion of the labour movement.
The Edo State chapter of the NLC has been in turmoil since August 2025, when the national body dissolved the state council and appointed a caretaker committee to steer its affairs. The crisis has been characterised by allegations of unethical behaviour, anti-union activities, and gross violations of the NLC's constitution. The Textile Union's decision to dissolve its Edo executive and suspend activities underscores the deep-rooted nature of the crisis and the challenges facing the labour movement in the state.
As the NUTGTWN moves to enforce discipline within its ranks, the focus now shifts to the Edo NLC Caretaker Committee and its efforts to resolve the broader crisis. The committee has reiterated its commitment to the speedy resolution of the conflict and has called for the cooperation of the Edo State Government and all stakeholders. However, with the Textile Union's decision to suspend activities, the path to resolution appears fraught with challenges, and the future of organised labour in Edo State remains uncertain.
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