The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has unequivocally condemned what they described as hasty and unconstitutional declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu.
The labor unions have called for the immediate reversal of the state of emergency declaration, stating that it directly violates Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and represents an overreach of executive power.
This position was expressed in a statement released on Wednesday, jointly signed by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, and TUC President, Festus Osifo.
“The suspension or removal of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly is not only unlawful but also a direct assault on democracy,” the statement read.
“It sets a dangerous precedent, undermining constitutional governance and threatening the autonomy of subnational governments.
“No democratic society can prosper when elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the whim of the President. This reckless action should raise concern for every responsible governor and citizen who believes in the rule of law,” they emphasized.
The unions urged President Tinubu to revoke the “unconstitutional declaration” in accordance with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which they argued clearly defines the legal process for declaring and sustaining a state of emergency.
They further stated, “The President, as the custodian of the nation’s executive powers, must exercise restraint, adhere to constitutional limits, and act in a manner that fosters national trust rather than suspicion.
“Any decision that endangers national security, economic stability, and democratic governance should be reconsidered.
“Nigeria has already borne the painful consequences of political overreach in the past, and repeating such mistakes is unacceptable.
“Beyond its political and legal ramifications, this unjustified state of emergency will have severe socio-economic consequences on workers and the masses. It will disrupt economic activities, forcing businesses to close or reduce operations; lead to job losses, wage cuts, and economic hardship for thousands of workers in both the formal and informal sectors; create an atmosphere of uncertainty, discouraging investment and hindering economic growth in Rivers State and beyond; and expose citizens to security risks, as history has shown that politically motivated states of emergency often worsen rather than resolve crises.”
The labor movement made it clear that it would not remain silent while the livelihoods of workers and the well-being of ordinary Nigerians are threatened by political maneuvering.
“Given the President’s own history in political struggle, we urge him not to betray his democratic credentials by engaging in actions that resemble military-era authoritarianism.
“Leadership requires wisdom, restraint, and an unwavering commitment to democratic principles.
“We demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional state of emergency for the sake of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers. Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed for political gain,” the statement concluded.
