The Edo State Government and the [Nigeria Labour Congress](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nigeria_Labour_Congress) concluded a protracted standoff on Friday, 23 October 2026, when both parties signed a peace accord that recognises the NLC caretaker committee and commits to restoring power to the state.
**What triggered the settlement?**
The dispute, which began over the state’s refusal to acknowledge the caretaker committee, escalated into a full‑scale industrial confrontation that left Edo in total darkness from Monday. The NLC lodged a complaint with the International Labour Organisation, accusing the government of intimidation and bullying.
**Who participated in the mediation?**
The breakthrough came after a meeting held at the residence of the [Secretary to the Government of the Federation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secretary_to_the_Government_of_the_Federation). Attendees included Edo Governor Godwin Obaseki, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero, former governor and Edo North Senator Adams Oshiomhole, and the Minister of Labour and Employment.
**Key outcomes of the agreement**
- The governor formally accepted the caretaker committee as the lawful NLC representative in Edo.
- Check‑off dues will now be remitted through the proper channels to the NLC.
- The locked NLC secretariat in Edo will reopen immediately.
- The governor invited the NLC president to lead the caretaker committee on a courtesy visit to Benin City.
- The [National Union of Electricity Employees](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Union_of_Electricity_Employees) pledged to restore electricity to Edo “as soon as practicable.”
**What did the NLC say?**
Acting General Secretary Benson Upah remarked, “The long‑running dispute between the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Edo State Government on the non‑recognition of the NLC caretaker committee in Edo State has been brought to an end.” He added that normal statutory relations between the state and organised labour would resume with immediate effect.
**Why is this significant?**
The accord not only ends a period of anti‑labour actions that saw the state accused of interference and intimidation, but it also paves the way for the resumption of industrial harmony, proper dues collection, and the much‑needed restoration of power. Observers note that full implementation will be crucial to prevent a recurrence of the conflict.
**Background context**
Edo’s power outage began after the NLC’s strike over the non‑recognition issue, affecting households and businesses across the state. The International Labour Organisation had previously been approached by the NLC, highlighting the seriousness of the grievance. This settlement restores the functional relationship between the state and the labour movement, a key component of Nigeria’s industrial landscape.
The agreement is expected to trigger the reopening of the NLC secretariat, the regularisation of check‑off contributions, and a coordinated effort by the NUEE to bring electricity back to Edo’s residents.