Organized Labour in Rivers State has strongly condemned the recent declaration of a state of emergency by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling it “baseless” and a direct attack on democracy.
In a joint statement issued on Tuesday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) decried the suspension of the state’s elected governor, deputy governor, and House of Assembly members, labeling it an unconstitutional move that undermines the will of the people.
According to Comrade Alex Agwanwor (NLC Rivers Chairman), Comrade Ikechukwu Onyefuru (TUC Rivers Chairman), and Comrade Chuku Emecheta (JP), the decision has worsened economic hardship, particularly for local government workers who are now left without salaries.
They warned that the political instability in Rivers—a key economic hub—could have severe consequences for Nigeria’s struggling economy, already battling inflation, naira devaluation, rising unemployment, and skyrocketing costs of living.
“Potential investors who had shown interest in the ‘New Rivers Vision’ have now withdrawn, dealing a major blow to the state’s internally generated revenue,” the statement read.
While Labour emphasized its commitment to law and order, it insisted that any intervention must align with the Nigerian Constitution and ensure workers’ rights, including wage stability and job security.
Labour leaders called on the President, National Assembly, and Judiciary to immediately reverse the emergency rule and restore democratic governance in the state.
“If our demands are not met within a reasonable timeframe, we may be left with no choice but to take decisive union action, which could disrupt national economic activities,” the statement warned.
Meanwhile, the unions have urged workers to remain calm and continue their duties as they await the federal government’s response.
