The organized labour in Rivers State has issued a strong warning, threatening strategic actions if the state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu is not reversed.
In a statement released in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) jointly condemned the President’s decision, citing its adverse impact on the people of Rivers State, particularly local government workers who have not received their salaries.
Labour’s Position on the State of Emergency
The statement, signed by NLC State Chairman Alex Agwanwor, TUC Chairman Ikechukwu Onyefuru, and JNC Chairman Chuku Emecheta, described the declaration as premature and unjustified. It further stated:
“The Rivers State Organised Labour expresses deep concern over the state of emergency declaration in Rivers State by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025. We strongly condemn the premature and baseless suspension of the Executive Governor, Deputy Governor, and House of Assembly members duly elected by the people of Rivers State.”
Labour leaders highlighted that the suspension has left local government workers in financial distress due to unpaid salaries, exacerbating the economic hardship in the state.
Economic Consequences
The statement warned that the state of emergency could have dire economic consequences, especially given Rivers State’s strategic role in Nigeria’s economy and the Niger Delta region. It noted:
“Considering the strategic importance of Rivers State, the state of emergency negatively affects potential investors, many of whom have withdrawn from planned investments, thereby reducing the state’s internally generated revenue.”
The labour unions further pointed out that the declaration comes at a time when the country is struggling with inflation, naira devaluation, high exchange rates, rising unemployment, and an increasing cost of living.
Labour’s Demands and Possible Actions
The statement called on President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Judiciary to urgently reverse the state of emergency and reinstate the suspended elected officials. It also urged the federal government to engage in genuine dialogue to resolve the crisis peacefully.
“The organised labour may be compelled to take strategic union actions that could disrupt national economic activities if our demands are not met within a reasonable timeframe.”
While reiterating its commitment to law and order, the organised labour insisted that any governmental action must align with the Nigerian Constitution and safeguard workers’ rights, including timely payment of salaries.
Labour leaders concluded by urging all workers to remain calm and continue their duties as they await a favorable response from the federal government.
