The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have reportedly condemned the alleged suspension of the Rivers State Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the State House of Assembly, describing it as an “unlawful” action and a direct attack on democracy. In a joint statement issued by NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero and TUC President Engineer Festus Osifo, the unions criticised the federal government’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, arguing that it violated constitutional provisions and undermined the democratic values of Nigeria.
According to reports, the labour leaders called the declaration of a state of emergency by President Tinubu “hasty and unconstitutional,” asserting that the suspension of elected officials, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, was a dangerous precedent that eroded constitutional governance. They warned that such actions could threaten the autonomy of subnational governments and destabilise Nigeria’s democracy.
The political crisis in Rivers State has been exacerbated by a power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. This tension has led to governance disruption and rising security concerns. In response to the unrest, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency and appointed Vice Admiral Ibok-Étè Ibas (retd.) as the sole administrator of the state.
The NLC and TUC pointed out that the action violated Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which outlines the legal procedure for declaring a state of emergency. They stressed that the President’s unilateral decision to remove elected officials overstepped executive powers, warning that such actions could undermine democratic institutions and set a worrying precedent.
The unions have called for the immediate reversal of the emergency declaration, urging President Tinubu to adhere to constitutional guidelines and revoke the decision. They also highlighted the negative impact this move could have on the economy, with potential job losses, business disruptions, and increased security risks.
The NLC and TUC concluded by urging the President to refrain from actions that could be seen as reminiscent of military-era rule and to prioritise democratic principles over political expediency.
