Organised labour unions in Rivers State have warned that they may embark on industrial actions capable of crippling national economic activities if President Bola Tinubu does not reverse the emergency rule imposed on the state.
In a joint statement signed by Alex Agwanwor, chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State; Ikechukwu Onyefuru, chairperson of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the state; and Chuku Emecheta, chairperson of the Joint Negotiation Council (JNC), the unions expressed concern over the economic and social impact of the decision.
Read also: The imperative of emergency rule in Rivers
The unions stated that the declaration of emergency rule has disrupted the payment of workers’ salaries, leaving local government employees struggling to survive. The unions also warned that the move has scared off potential investors who had expressed interest in the state’s “New Rivers Vision” development plan.
“While Rivers State organised labour supports maintaining law and order, it insists that actions such as the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of elected officials must align with the Nigerian Constitution and protect workers from wage invalidity, non-payment of salaries, and security threats,” the statement read.
The unions stressed that governance should prioritise the safety and welfare of citizens over political interests. They called on the President, National Assembly, and the Judiciary to immediately reverse the emergency rule and reinstate the suspended elected officials to restore stability in the state.
Read also: State of emergency in Rivers means subverting will of people – Sowore
“The federal government is strongly advised to engage in genuine dialogue to prevent further escalation of the issues in Rivers State,” the statement added.
While urging workers to remain calm and continue their duties, the unions warned that they would be forced to take “strategic union actions” that could disrupt economic activities nationwide if their demands were not met within a reasonable timeframe.
The statement, dated March 24, 2025, reflects growing tensions over the federal government’s handling of the political crisis in Rivers State.
