The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have strongly condemned what they describe as the hasty and unconstitutional declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
In a joint statement issued on Wednesday by NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo, the labour unions called for an immediate reversal of the decision, arguing that it blatantly violates Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and constitutes an overreach of executive power.
According to the statement, the alleged suspension or removal of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly is unlawful and represents a direct assault on democracy.
“This action sets a dangerous precedent, undermining constitutional governance and threatening the autonomy of subnational governments,” the unions stated.
They further emphasized that no democratic society can thrive when elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the discretion of the President.
This reckless move should be of grave concern to every reasonable governor and citizen who upholds the rule of law,” the statement added.
The unions urged President Tinubu to immediately revoke the declaration in line with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which outlines the legal process for declaring and sustaining a state of emergency.
They cautioned that the President, as the custodian of the nation’s executive powers, must act within constitutional boundaries and exercise restraint to inspire national confidence rather than foster suspicion.
Beyond the political and legal implications, the NLC and TUC warned that an unjustified state of emergency would have severe socio-economic repercussions for workers and the general public. They outlined the potential consequences, including:
- Disruption of economic activities, leading to business closures or downsizing.
- Job losses and wage cuts, worsening economic hardship for workers in both the formal and informal sectors.
- Increased uncertainty, discouraging investment and slowing economic growth in Rivers State and beyond.
- Heightened security risks, as history has shown that politically motivated states of emergency often escalate rather than resolve crises.
The labour movement stressed that it would not remain silent while the livelihoods of workers and the well-being of ordinary Nigerians are threatened by political maneuvering.
Reminding President Tinubu of his background in political struggle, the unions urged him not to betray his democratic credentials by engaging in actions reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism.
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“Leadership requires wisdom, restraint, and a steadfast commitment to democratic principles,” the statement read.
They concluded by demanding the immediate reversal of the unconstitutional state of emergency in the interest of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers.
“Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency,” the statement warned.
