The unions cautioned that failure to do so within a reasonable timeframe could compel them to take decisive action, potentially disrupting national economic activities.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Joint Negotiation Council (JNC), have issued a stern warning to the Nigerian government, demanding the immediate reversal of the state of emergency declared in Rivers State.
The unions cautioned that failure to do so within a reasonable timeframe could compel them to take decisive action, potentially disrupting national economic activities.
The warning was conveyed in a joint statement signed by the Rivers State Chairperson of the NLC, Alex Agwanwor; State Chairperson of the TUC, Ikechukwu Onyefuru; and Chairperson of the JNC, Chuku Emecheta.
The labour leaders strongly condemned the emergency rule imposed by the Federal Government, describing the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and members of the State House of Assembly as unconstitutional and undemocratic.
They argued that the officials were elected by the people and should only be removed through legal and constitutional means.
The statement raised concerns over the legality and economic repercussions of the Federal Government’s action, warning that the emergency rule has already triggered hardship for local government workers who have yet to receive their salaries.
Withholding wages, they said, has exacerbated the financial struggles of workers amid rising inflation, high exchange rates, and soaring living costs.
The Organised Labour emphasised that Rivers State is a key economic hub, particularly within the Niger Delta region, and that any instability in the state could have widespread economic consequences for Nigeria.
They cautioned that the political uncertainty has already deterred potential investors, leading to a decline in the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) and threatening long-term economic development and job opportunities.
While acknowledging the importance of maintaining law and order, the unions insisted that such measures must be executed within the framework of the Nigerian Constitution.
They argued that suspending elected officials and allegedly disrupting workers’ salaries were violations of fundamental rights that could deepen security and economic crises.
The statement urged President Bola Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the judiciary to take immediate steps to reverse the state of emergency and reinstate the suspended government officials.
The unions called for a peaceful resolution through meaningful dialogue with relevant stakeholders, warning that failure to act swiftly could escalate tensions in the already volatile political climate.
As they urged workers to remain calm and continue their duties, the labour leaders reaffirmed their commitment to defending workers’ rights and the democratic process.
They warned that if their demands were not met, they would not hesitate to implement strategic union actions that could significantly impact national economic activities.
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