The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have strongly opposed President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it an unconstitutional and excessive use of executive power.
In a joint statement released on Wednesday, NLC President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo denounced the move as a violation of Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and urged its immediate reversal.
“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.”
According to the labour leaders, the removal of elected officials outside of constitutional procedures undermines democracy and should be a cause for concern for all Nigerians. “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.”
The unions called on President Tinubu to adhere to constitutional provisions, specifically Section 305(6), which outlines the legal steps required 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. “Any decision that jeopardizes national security, economic stability, and democratic governance must be reconsidered.”
Expressing concern over the broader implications of the declaration, the NLC and TUC warned that such actions could lead to severe economic and social consequences.
“Nigeria has suffered the painful consequences of political overreach in the past, and we cannot afford to repeat such mistakes,” the statement read. “Beyond the political and legal implications, this unjustified state of emergency will have severe socio-economic repercussions on workers and the masses.”
They highlighted several potential impacts, including the disruption of economic activities, job losses, reduced wages, diminished business confidence, and heightened security risks.
The statement further emphasized that the Labour movement would not remain silent while the welfare of workers and the stability of the nation were put at risk.
“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,” they said. “Leadership demands wisdom, restraint, and an unwavering commitment to democratic principles.”
Calling for immediate action, the unions reiterated their demand for the reversal of the state of emergency, stating, “We demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional state of emergency in the interest of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers. Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.”
