The Organised Labour has issued a stern rebuke of the state of emergency imposed on Rivers State, threatening to initiate actions that could disrupt Nigeria’s economic operations unless the decision is overturned promptly. This warning was outlined in a statement co-signed by Alex Agwanwor, Rivers State Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC); Ikechukwu Onyefuru, State Chairperson of the Trade Union Congress (TUC); and Chuku Emecheta, Chairperson of the Joint Negotiation Council (JNC).
The unions expressed alarm over the federal government’s move, questioning its legality, economic fallout, and broader implications. They labeled the emergency declaration and the suspension of elected officials—Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and House of Assembly members—as unjustified and hasty. The labour leaders argued that these officials were democratically chosen by Rivers State residents, and any effort to oust them outside constitutional bounds threatens Nigeria’s democratic principles. They demanded a reversal to safeguard the nation’s democratic integrity.
Labour highlighted the immediate toll on local government workers, many of whom are still awaiting unpaid salaries, exacerbating their financial struggles amid soaring living costs. The unions cautioned that Rivers State’s critical role in Nigeria’s economy and the Niger Delta amplifies the potential for nationwide economic damage. With the country already battling inflation, a weakening naira, high unemployment, and escalating living expenses, they warned that instability in Rivers could intensify these challenges.
The statement also noted that political uncertainty has deterred prospective investors interested in the state’s economic projects, harming its internally generated revenue (IGR) and jeopardizing long-term growth and job creation. While recognizing the importance of maintaining order, the unions insisted that such measures must align with the Nigerian Constitution. They condemned the suspension of elected officials and the disruption of workers’ salaries as violations of basic rights, potentially deepening security and economic woes.
Labour called on the federal government to prioritize citizens’ welfare over political agendas, warning that prioritizing politics over workers’ livelihoods could spark greater unrest. They pressed President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the judiciary to act swiftly to lift the emergency and restore the suspended officials. The unions advocated for dialogue with key stakeholders to resolve the issue peacefully, cautioning that inaction could escalate tensions further.
While urging workers to stay calm and carry on with their responsibilities, the Organised Labour made it clear they are prepared to launch strategic actions if their demands aren’t met soon. They underscored that such steps could significantly impact national economic stability.
