The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have strongly criticized the recent state of emergency declaration in Rivers State and the suspension of elected officials.
In a joint statement issued by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero and TUC President Comrade Festus Osifo, the labour unions condemned the President’s actions as unconstitutional, arguing that they violate Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and represent an overreach of executive authority.
They described the removal of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State House of Assembly members as illegal and a direct attack on democracy, warning that such actions set a dangerous precedent that undermines constitutional governance and the autonomy of state governments.
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The statement emphasized that democratic institutions cannot function properly if elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the President’s discretion. The labour unions, therefore, called for an immediate reversal of the state of emergency in line with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which outlines the legal process for such declarations.
They urged the President to exercise restraint, respect constitutional boundaries, and take actions that build public trust rather than sow suspicion. They further cautioned that any move that threatens national security, economic stability, and democratic governance must be reconsidered.
Highlighting past instances of political overreach and their damaging consequences, the unions warned against repeating such mistakes. They also outlined the economic and social risks of the state of emergency, stating that it could disrupt business activities, lead to job losses and wage cuts, deter investment, and create insecurity rather than resolving the crisis.
The labour movement affirmed its commitment to defending workers’ rights and protecting the livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians, vowing not to remain silent in the face of politically motivated actions that endanger economic and social stability.
