Organised Labour demands immediate reversal of state of emergency in Rivers

The organised labour, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, has condemned the declaration of State of Emergency by President Bola Tinubu  in Rivers State, calling it an unconstitutional overreach and a direct assault on democracy.

In a joint statement signed by NLC president, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and TUC president Comrade Festus Osifo, on Wednesday, the Labour unions criticised the action, stating that it blatantly violates part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and undermined the principles of democratic governance.

The two labour leaders warned that such actions erode constitutional governance and create instability, adding that no democratic society can thrive when elected officials are removed arbitrarily.

Both NLC and TUC demanded that President Tinubu immediately revoke the state of emergency in compliance with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which outlines the legal process for declaring and sustaining such measures.

They cautioned that the decision could have far-reaching consequences, including undermining national security, economic stability, and Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Apart from the political implications highlighted by the labour centres, the two congresses also warned that the declaration would have severe socio-economic consequences for workers and businesses in Rivers State.

The statement reads in part.;

 “The purported suspension or removal of the governor, deputy governor, and the State House of Assembly is not only unlawful but a direct assault on democracy.

It sets a dangerous precedent, eroding constitutional governance and threatening the autonomy of subnational governments. No democratic society can thrive where elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the whims of the President. This reckless move should deeply concern every reasonable governor and citizen who believes in the rule of law.

We, therefore, call on Mr. President to revoke this unconstitutional declaration in compliance with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which clearly outlines the legal process for declaring and sustaining a state of emergency.

The President, as the custodian of the nation’s executive powers, must exercise restraint, respect constitutional limits, and act in a manner that inspires national confidence rather than suspicion.

The labour movement will not remain silent while the livelihoods of workers and the well-being of ordinary Nigerians are threatened by political machinations.

Given his storied background in political struggle, we urge Mr. President not to betray his democratic credentials by engaging in actions reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism.”