Labour unions in Rivers State have rejected President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency, describing it as “baseless” and warning that they may shut down economic activities if the decision is not reversed.
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In a statement signed on Tuesday by Comrade Alex Agwanwor, Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers; Comrade Ikechukwu Onyefuru, Chairperson of the Trade Union Congress (TUC); and Comrade Chuku Emecheta (JP), the unions condemned the move, saying it has worsened hardship for local government workers who have not been paid their salaries.
They warned that the decision is already scaring away investors, affecting the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR), and threatening the livelihoods of thousands. The unions insisted that while law and order are necessary, actions must align with the Constitution and protect workers’ rights.
The labour leaders called on the President, National Assembly, and Judiciary to immediately reverse the state of emergency and restore elected officials. They urged workers to remain calm but made it clear that if their demands are not met, they will not hesitate to embark on massive industrial action that could cripple economic activities across the country.
