Organised Labour has strongly opposed the imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State, cautioning that if the decision is not overturned promptly, it may be compelled to take decisive measures that could disrupt the country’s economy.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 25, 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, questioned the legality and economic impact of the federal government’s move.
They described the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the House of Assembly as “premature and baseless,” insisting that any attempt to remove elected officials outside constitutional processes undermines democracy.
Labour leaders warned that the state of emergency has already caused hardship for local government workers, many of whom have not received their salaries.
They argued that withholding wages at a time of high inflation and rising living costs would only worsen economic suffering.
The unions stressed Rivers State’s strategic economic importance, warning that the ongoing crisis could have far-reaching consequences on Nigeria’s economy.
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They also blamed the political uncertainty for discouraging investors, which they said would harm the state’s revenue and job creation.
While acknowledging the need for law and order, the labour unions insisted that governance must adhere to constitutional principles.
They urged the federal government to prioritise citizens’ welfare over political manoeuvres, warning that actions that disregard workers’ rights could escalate tensions.
The statement called on President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the judiciary to reverse the state of emergency and reinstate suspended officials.
Labour leaders urged dialogue with stakeholders to resolve the crisis peacefully, warning that failure to act could further destabilise the state.
They also advised workers to remain calm but made it clear that if their demands were not met within a reasonable timeframe, they would not hesitate to take union action, which could significantly impact national economic activities.