By Davies Iheamnachor

PORT HARCOURT— The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in Rivers State, has elected Alex Agwanwor as it new Chairman, following the expiration of the tenure of its former chairperson, Beatrice Itubo, who is now the governorship candidate of the Labour Party in the state.

The new chairman, Agwanwor, however, has vowed to protect the interest of workers in the state.

Agwangwor, who is from Nigerian Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, emerged the chairman unopposed, yesterday, in Port Harcourt, in an election that was well attended by different workers union in the state.

Speaking to newsmen, the new labour chair promised that he would emancipated workers in the state from draconian employers.

He also promised that he would engage with all employers both from the private and public sector to ensure that the welfare of workers are protected.

Agwanwor said: “For labour in Rivers State, there is a new hope. The fight for the emancipation of workers in Rivers State from the hands of draconian and wicked employers and agencies. As a leader of the congress, I will ensure that the hope and confidence of workers in Rivers State is restored back.”

“For the retirees and pensioners, we have our plans and we will ensure that they are not owed. We will make sure that every issue regarding the welfare of workers in Rivers State is settled for the interest of the workers.

“We will engage the government, the private sector and for all employers of Labour, it will not be business as usual.

“The struggle for the emancipation and prosperity of Rivers State workers and people has just begun. Our unity should be in diversity as we are members of different affiliates but bounded by one goal and objective, which is the continuous fight for the right and wellbeing of workers in Rivers State.”

Meanwhile, the Deputy National President of NLC, Adeyanju Adewale, enjoined the new leadership in the state to carry everybody along and ensure there was no room for crisis.