The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have issued a stern warning to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, criticizing what they describe as an assault on democracy following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
In a joint statement signed by NLC National President Joe Ajaero and TUC President Festus Osifo on Wednesday, the organized unions vehemently condemned Tinubu’s actions, labeling them unconstitutional and undemocratic.
The declaration of a state of emergency on Tuesday by Tinubu, along with the suspension of all democratically elected authorities in Rivers State, sparked outrage among the labour unions.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria unequivocally condemn Mr. President’s hasty and unconstitutional declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
This action blatantly violates the provisions of Part II, Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and constitutes an overreach of executive power,” the statement read.
The unions further criticized the purported removal of the state governor, deputy governor, and House of Assembly members, terming it not only unlawful but also a direct attack on democracy.
“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 statement continued.
President Tinubu, in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday, announced the state of emergency in Rivers State and subsequently swore in retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the sole administrator of the state on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, as of the time of filing this report, the National Assembly had not officially commented on the matter, although the development had elicited widespread reactions across the country.
Opposition leaders, including the presidential candidates of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party in the 2023 election, have also voiced strong condemnation of Tinubu’s decision.
The NLC and TUC concluded their statement by demanding the immediate reversal of the state of emergency, emphasizing the need to uphold democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers.
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