The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have strongly condemned the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling for its immediate reversal. The unions described the move as unconstitutional and a dangerous precedent that threatens democracy and workers’ rights.
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, the leadership of both unions accused the government of using security concerns as a cover for political interference in the state’s governance. They warned that such actions could destabilize the nation’s democratic process and erode public confidence in state institutions.
“We reject in totality the unconstitutional and undemocratic imposition of a state of emergency in Rivers State. This is a clear attempt to subvert the will of the people and undermine the elected government of the state,” the statement read.
The unions further argued that no compelling security situation justified the emergency rule, citing that Rivers State has remained largely peaceful despite political disagreements. They accused the federal government of overreach and warned that labour groups would mobilize protests if the decision was not reversed.
“The imposition of emergency rule where no war, insurgency, or uncontrollable violence exists is an affront to constitutional democracy. The government must retrace its steps and uphold the rule of law,” said NLC President Joe Ajaero during a press briefing.
TUC President Festus Osifo also condemned the decision, urging lawmakers to reject the declaration when it comes before the National Assembly for approval. He emphasized that workers in the state could suffer the consequences of the political crisis, as emergency rule might disrupt economic activities, public services, and governance.
Political analysts have echoed similar concerns, noting that the declaration could set a dangerous precedent where the federal government may interfere in states under the guise of security enforcement. Some legal experts have suggested that affected parties could challenge the declaration in court.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Government has vowed to resist the federal action, with Governor Siminalayi Fubara calling on the judiciary and the international community to intervene. “This is a blatant abuse of power. We will explore every legal avenue to ensure justice prevails,” Fubara stated.
As tensions continue to rise, the federal government has yet to respond to the labour unions’ demands. However, sources within the presidency suggest that officials are monitoring the situation and may engage stakeholders in discussions to prevent further unrest.
With the Senate scheduled to deliberate on the matter in the coming days, the fate of Rivers State’s emergency rule remains uncertain. Labour leaders have vowed to continue mounting pressure until the decision is overturned.
