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Labour Unions Challenge Rivers State Emergency Rule
The Nigeria Labour Congress (“Labour Unions Challenge Rivers State Emergency Rule”) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have called on President Bola Tinubu to swiftly annul the State of Emergency imposed on Rivers State earlier this week.
Following an emergency meeting in Abuja, the unions issued a joint statement condemning the President’s action, describing it as unconstitutional and detrimental to democratic governance.
Signed by NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festis Osifo, the statement criticized the declaration as a violation of Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution. The unions asserted that the decision represents an overreach of executive power, removing elected officials and dismantling the democratic structure in Rivers State. They warned that such actions could set a dangerous precedent, undermining the autonomy of subnational governments.
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The labour organizations also raised concerns about the socio-economic impact on citizens, predicting economic uncertainty and security risks as potential consequences of the declaration. Citing past instances, they argued that politically motivated states of emergency often worsen existing crises instead of resolving them.
“Leadership requires restraint, adherence to constitutional limits, and a commitment to democratic principles,” the statement read. “We urge President Tinubu to revoke this declaration immediately and restore governance in Rivers State within the bounds of the Constitution.”
The unions emphasized the importance of upholding democracy and protecting the livelihoods of Nigerian workers, stating that the labour movement will not remain silent in the face of actions that threaten national stability. They called on the President to avoid policies reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism and instead prioritize the welfare of citizens and the rule of law.
