NLC, TUC Condemn State of Emergency, Demand Immediate Reversal

NLC, TUC Condemn State of Emergency, Demand Immediate Reversal

The Nigeria Labour Congress(NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has issued a resolute demand for the immediate withdrawal of what it describes as an unconstitutional declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State. This call arises from concerns for democracy, economic stability, and the overall welfare of Nigerian workers. The statement, released under the urgent title “Stop this Assault on Democracy Now,” asserts that the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic framework must not be compromised for political expediency.

Jointly signed by Joe Ajaero, President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Festus Osifo, President of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), the statement unequivocally condemns President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s swift and unconstitutional action in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State. The labour leaders criticize this measure as a clear violation of the provisions outlined in Part two, Section 305 of the amended 1999 Constitution, characterizing it as an unlawful overreach of executive power.

The organised labour further stresses that the decisions involving the suspension or removal of the state’s Governor, Deputy Governor, and the entire State House of Assembly constitute not only an unlawful act but also a blatant attack on democratic principles. They express that such actions create a hazardous precedent which erodes constitutional governance and jeopardizes the autonomy of subnational entities.

In the statement, they warn, “No democratic society can thrive where elected representatives are dismissed at the whims of the President,” emphasizing the importance of adherence to the rule of law. The labour unions describe the President’s actions as reckless and urge that it should be a source of grave concern for every reasonable governor and citizen who values democratic governance.

Continuing their criticism of the President’s approach, the NLC and TUC call for an immediate revocation of the unconstitutional declaration, citing Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which provides a legal framework for the declaration and management of a state of emergency. They urge the President, who serves as the custodian of executive powers, to exercise restraint and to respect the constitutional boundaries set forth by the nation’s supreme law, recommending actions that inspire national confidence rather than foster suspicion.

The unions noted the unfortunate history of political overreach in Nigeria, wherein past decisions have led to severe consequences. They firmly state that the country cannot afford to repeat such mistakes, especially in a climate where the livelihoods of workers and the welfare of ordinary Nigerians are at stake due to political manoeuvres.

Currently, the situation has escalated as the President has appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibot-Ette Ibas as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, while the suspended Governor, Siminalaye Fubara, has departed from the Government House in Port Harcourt. Organised labour stands committed to voicing their discontent and resisting any threats to the rights and well-being of Nigerian workers amidst the unfolding political turmoil.