The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have strongly condemned the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu, calling it unconstitutional and a blatant violation of the nation’s constitution.
In a joint statement issued on Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo expressed their concern over what they described as a “hasty” and “unconstitutional” move. The unions called for the immediate reversal of the declaration, stating that it violates the provisions of Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and constitutes an overreach of executive power.
“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,” the statement read. “It sets a dangerous precedent, eroding constitutional governance and threatening the autonomy of subnational governments.”
The labour unions emphasized that such a move undermines the fundamental democratic principle that no elected leader should be removed at the discretion of the President, warning that such actions should be a cause for concern for all citizens and state governors who believe in the rule of law.
The NLC and TUC further urged President Tinubu to comply with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which they argued clearly outlines the legal process for declaring and sustaining a state of emergency. The unions called for the President to exercise restraint and respect constitutional limits, stressing that actions of this nature could jeopardize national security, economic stability, and democratic governance.
They also warned of the severe socio-economic consequences of the state of emergency, including disruption to economic activities, job losses, wage cuts, and general hardship for workers and citizens. Additionally, they pointed out that the political instability created by such a declaration could deter investment, slow economic growth, and expose citizens to greater security risks.
The unions expressed their resolve to stand against any actions that threaten the livelihoods of Nigerian workers and the well-being of ordinary Nigerians. “Given his long history of political struggle, we urge the President not to betray his democratic credentials by engaging in actions reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism,” the statement concluded.
The NLC and TUC demanded the immediate reversal of the state of emergency, asserting that Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed for political expediency.
