The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed concern over the absence of many state governors from their respective states, noting that they often reside in Abuja while citizens face economic hardships.

NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made this statement during a town hall meeting with workers at the NLC Secretariat in Lokoja, Kogi State. The meeting was part of a visit to commission 10 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses provided to the Kogi State chapter to alleviate transportation challenges.

Ajaero highlighted that the event allowed workers to voice their concerns, which the NLC leadership would present to the state governor. However, he noted that during visits to five different zones, only one governor was present, as most had traveled to Abuja.

"We have observed a trend where governors now spend most of their time in Abuja. Out of the five zones we have visited, we have only met a governor in one state. This absence is affecting governance," Ajaero stated.

He emphasized the need for governors to remain accessible to their people, ensuring that governance is responsive and inclusive.

Kogi State holds particular significance for the NLC, as both the governor and deputy governor have backgrounds in labor unions. Ajaero noted that Governor Usman Ododo was formerly an NLC official in Niger State, while the deputy governor was a member of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).

"This town hall meeting serves as an opportunity to assess the government's actions and ensure accountability," Ajaero added.

Addressing the reported proscription of labor unions in state-owned tertiary institutions, he reaffirmed that trade union operations fall under the Exclusive Legislative List, making such bans unconstitutional.