The Organised Labour has rejected the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, warning that failure to reverse the decision could lead to actions that may cripple economic activities across the country.
In a joint statement, the Rivers State Chairpersons of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Alex Agwanwor; the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Ikechukwu Onyefuru; and the Joint Negotiation Council (JNC), Chuku Emecheta, expressed concerns over the legality and economic implications of the federal government’s decision.
The unions denounced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and state lawmakers, calling it unconstitutional and a direct threat to democracy.
They insisted that removing elected officials through any means other than constitutional processes undermines the will of the people.
They also decried the immediate hardships caused by the emergency declaration, noting that many local government workers had yet to receive their salaries, exacerbating economic struggles amid rising living costs.
Labour leaders stressed that Rivers State plays a critical role in Nigeria’s economy, particularly in the Niger Delta.
They warned that political instability in the state could further weaken the economy, which is already strained by inflation, currency depreciation, and high unemployment.
The statement urged President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the judiciary to intervene by reversing the state of emergency and restoring the suspended officials.
The unions also called for urgent dialogue with key stakeholders to resolve the crisis peacefully.
While urging workers to remain calm, the labour unions cautioned that they would not hesitate to take decisive actions, which could have nationwide economic repercussions, if their demands were ignored.