Each year, specifically on May 1, Nigerian workers observed a work free day to mark Workers' Day. This is one of the public holidays every Nigerian has observed for as long as we can remember.

But how did we come to have Workers' Day? Who invented or initiated it? Is it Nigerian or Foreign in nature? Is there something bloody or peaceful about it? Why do some religious organizations refused to give it recognition?

This is how it began...

Workers around the world have always asked for increased wage and reduced working hours. The treatment and overuse workers suffer in the hands of employers brought about this struggle for better life for all workers globally.

In the 1860s, workers all over the world campaigned for shorter working hours. It was a historic moment!

American and Canadian workers staged a strike and rallies in demand for an 8-hour work free day. Two days later, the Chicago police attacked and killed several workers. A protest against the killing was held by the workers at the Hay Market Square.

While the protest was going on, someone threw a bomb. Seven policemen lost their lives and many people in the crowd got injured.

Eight leaders of the workers were arrested. Four were executed, one died in prison, and the other three were sentenced for life. Later, however, they were granted pardon.

To honor a day like that, the International Workers'Congress in Paris declared May 1 an eight-hour holiday in 1889..

Many countries celebrate Workers' Day on May 1 each year.

In Nigeria, the People's Redemption Party (PRP) government of Kano state was first to declare May 1 Workers' Day in 1980.

May 1 became an official public holiday in 1981 in Nigeria.

~George
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