The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have strongly condemned President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, describing it as a reckless and unconstitutional move that threatens democracy and economic stability.
In a joint statement signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and TUC President, Engineer Festus Osifo, the unions accused the President of overreaching his executive powers and violating Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“This action blatantly violates the provisions of Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, and constitutes an overreach of executive power,” the statement read.
The unions warned that the alleged suspension or removal of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and the State House of Assembly was not only unlawful but a dangerous attack on the foundation of Nigeria’s democracy.
“It sets a dangerous precedent, eroding constitutional governance and threatening the autonomy of subnational governments. No democratic society can thrive where elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the whims of the president,” Ajaero and Osifo declared.
They called on President Tinubu to immediately reverse the decision in accordance with constitutional provisions, reminding him that Section 305(6) of the Constitution outlines a clear legal process for declaring and maintaining a state of emergency.
“The President, as the custodian of the nation’s executive powers, must exercise restraint, respect constitutional limits, and act in a manner that inspires national confidence rather than suspicion,” the statement continued.
The Labour leaders also highlighted the economic dangers of the emergency rule, warning that it could lead to widespread job losses, wage cuts, and the collapse of businesses in Rivers State and beyond.
“This unjustified state of emergency will disrupt economic activities, forcing businesses to shut down or scale back operations. It will lead to job losses, wage cuts, and economic hardship for thousands of workers in both the formal and informal sectors,” the statement warned.
They further argued that rather than resolving crises, politically motivated states of emergency often escalate conflicts and deepen insecurity.
“History has shown that politically motivated states of emergency often escalate rather than resolve crises. This move exposes citizens to security risks and creates an atmosphere of uncertainty, discouraging investment and slowing economic growth,” the unions said.
Ajaero and Osifo reminded President Tinubu of his own history as a political activist, urging him not to betray his democratic credentials by engaging in actions reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism.
“Given his storied background in political struggle, we urge Mr President not to betray his democratic credentials by engaging in actions reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism. Leadership demands wisdom, restraint, and an unwavering commitment to democratic principles,” they cautioned.
The unions vowed not to remain silent while the rights of Nigerian workers and citizens were trampled upon for political expediency.
“The Labour movement will not remain silent while the livelihoods of workers and the well-being of ordinary Nigerians are threatened by political machinations,” the statement added.
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