By Ola ‘Kiya, Reporting
AS the world celebrates workers today, the Egogo (mouthpiece) of Warri Kingdom, Chief Robinson Ariyo, has proposed a new nomenclature for Workers Day to reflect the actual essence of the day.
Ariyo, therefore, urged President Bola Tinubu, state governors, labour unions and other stakeholders to consider ‘Champions’ or Heroes’ Day in place of Workers Day or Labour Day to delineate its real essence.
In a Wednesday statement made available to our correspondent to mark the Workers’ Day in Warri, Delta State, the erudite lawyer opined that there’s more to a name than the physical letters.
“Today is Labour Day or International Workers’ Day; a day that is observed annually on May 1st to commemorate the achievements and contributions of workers to the society.
“I am an adherent of the belief that there is more to a name than the physical letters. For one, it conjures powerful thoughts that influence the paths of its target,” he averred.
According to the Warri chief, “the celebration is designed to recognize the role that Workers or Labour plays in the development of nations; small medium and large scale businesses, including the public sector.
“The day is celebrated with many festivities, including parades and parties.
“I today stand to move a motion for a change of the name in my desire to trigger a thought about the name “Workers” or “Labour”.
“Even though the practice began over 200 years ago, the appropriateness of the name may not have be given a second thought. My intention is to trigger that second thought.
“I, therefore, suggest the need to change the title of the celebration from Workers’ or Labour to ‘Champions’ or Heroes’ Day.’
Chief Ariyo argued that the phrases “workers or labour day” evoke the ugly memories of slavery and subjugation.
“I observe that the origin of the name itself associates memories of slavery and degrading conditions of service.
“I would rather call those who help build my establishment Champions or Heroes not Workers. What about you?
“They are my Champions or Heroes. Happy Champions’ Day; think about it. The Masquerade must know that its mystery lies in its followers,” he affirmed.
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