Abia State Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu has denied the existence of any rift between the Labour Party (LP) and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, Emetu said on Tuesday during a public briefing in Umuahia.

Recent public discourse suggested tension between the state chapter of the LP and the NLC over labour and governance issues.

The NLC is a national umbrella organisation for trade unions in Nigeria, while the LP is a registered political party. Abia State is governed by a coalition between parties including the LP.

Speaking at the Government House in Umuahia, Emetu described reports of a disagreement as inaccurate and said there was ongoing cooperation between the state government, the LP and labour unions.

He said the governor’s administration recognises the role of labour institutions in advocating for workers’ rights and welfare in the state.

Emetu said the state government and labour leaders have held meetings to discuss economic and social issues, including efforts to stabilise prices and address the cost of living.

He emphasised that such engagements were consultative and aimed at strengthening relationships, not indicative of conflict.

Emetu said: “There is no rift between the Labour Party and the Nigeria Labour Congress in Abia State. We are working together to address issues affecting workers and residents.”

Clarification of relations between political parties and labour organisations in states like Abia may influence public understanding of governance partnerships ahead of forthcoming elections.

Cooperative engagement between party officials and labour unions can shape policy discussions on employment, wages and social welfare.