By Darasimi K.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have strongly condemned President Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it an unconstitutional overreach of executive power.
In a joint statement issued by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and TUC President, Comrade Engr. Festus Osifo, the organized labour leaders denounced the move as a “blatant violation” of the Nigerian Constitution, specifically Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
“This action blatantly violates the provisions of the Constitution and constitutes an overreach of executive power,” the statement read. “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 unions warned that the decision to suspend elected leaders sets a dangerous precedent that undermines constitutional governance and the autonomy of subnational governments.
“No democratic society can thrive where elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the whims of the President. This reckless move should deeply concern every reasonable governor and citizen who believes in the rule of law,” they stated.
Call for Immediate Reversal
The labour organizations urged the President to immediately revoke the state of emergency, citing Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which outlines the legal process for such declarations.
“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,” they emphasized.
Economic and Security Concerns
Beyond the legal ramifications, the unions highlighted the socio-economic consequences of the decision, warning that it could devastate businesses, lead to job losses, and discourage investment 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 noted.
Furthermore, they cautioned that politically motivated states of emergency have historically escalated, rather than resolved, crises. “Exposing citizens to security risks under the guise of governance is a disservice to democracy,” the labour leaders stressed.
A Plea for Democratic Integrity
Recalling the President’s background in political struggles, the unions urged him 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. We demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional state of emergency in the interest of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers,” they declared.
As concerns grow over the implications of this decision, the NLC and TUC reaffirmed their commitment to standing against any threats to democratic governance. “Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency,” they concluded.
