In a strong and united response, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have vehemently rejected the recent declaration of an emergency rule in Rivers State. The two largest organised labour bodies in the country expressed their deep concern over the potential negative consequences this move could have on the rights and freedoms of citizens in the state.
The NLC and TUC have issued a joint statement condemning the emergency rule, asserting that it infringes on the democratic rights of Rivers State residents and undermines the principles of due process and good governance. The unions described the declaration as an unconstitutional overreach, which violates the rights of workers and citizens to freely participate in the governance of their state.
"Organised Labour is strongly opposed to the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State. It is an unwarranted escalation that threatens the democratic process and puts the livelihood of our workers at risk. This action must not stand," said the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, in the statement.
The TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo, echoed similar concerns, highlighting the detrimental effect such measures have on the economic stability of the state and the nation. "Our workers are already facing challenges, and emergency rule will only exacerbate the situation. We call for the immediate reversal of this declaration, or we will have no choice but to mobilize our members for a national strike," said Osifo.
The unions have given the President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a 72-hour ultimatum to reverse the decision, warning that failure to do so will lead to an all-out industrial action by organised labour across the country