The Organized Labour in Rivers State has strongly criticized the state of emergency declaration issued by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2025, describing it as unjustified and detrimental to the state’s stability and economy.
In a joint statement signed by Comrade Alex Agwanwor (State Chairperson, NLC), Comrade Ikechukwu Onyefuru (State Chairperson, TUC), and Comrade Chuku Emecheta (JP), the Labour leaders expressed deep concern over the suspension of the Executive Governor, Deputy Governor, and elected House of Assembly members. They emphasized that these officials were duly elected by the people of Rivers State, and their removal undermines democracy and constitutional governance.
Impact on Local Government Workers and Economic Hardship
The Labour movement lamented that the state of emergency has significantly affected local government workers, many of whom have not received their salaries due to the political crisis. This, they argued, has exposed workers and their families to severe economic hardship, worsening their financial struggles in an already difficult economic climate.
Considering Rivers State’s strategic role in Nigeria’s economy and its importance in the Niger Delta region, Labour leaders warned that the state of emergency could have devastating economic consequences. They pointed out that Nigeria is already grappling with high inflation, naira devaluation, skyrocketing exchange rates, rising unemployment, an increasing cost of living, and unaffordable electricity tariffs. The added instability in Rivers State, they argued, only worsens these national economic woes.
Loss of Investor Confidence and Impact on State Revenue
The Labour leaders expressed alarm over the loss of investor confidence resulting from the political uncertainty. They noted that several potential investors who had shown interest in the ‘New Rivers Vision’ have withdrawn their planned investments, significantly impacting the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). They stressed that Rivers State, which is a critical economic hub, now faces long-term economic setbacks due to the disruption.
Labour’s Call for Constitutional Adherence and Workers’ Protection
While acknowledging the need to maintain law and order, the Rivers State Organized Labour insisted that any government action, including the declaration of a state of emergency and the suspension of elected officials, must be in line with the Nigerian Constitution.
The statement emphasized that such drastic measures must not jeopardize workers’ welfare or lead to salary delays, job insecurity, or economic instability. Labour leaders urged the government to prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens over political interests.
Appeal to Federal Authorities for Urgent Reversal
The Rivers State Organized Labour made a direct appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the National Assembly, and the Judiciary to urgently reverse the state of emergency and reinstate the suspended elected officials. They stressed that restoring normalcy in the state is crucial for economic stability, peace, and the protection of workers’ rights.
Furthermore, they called on the federal government to engage in genuine dialogue to resolve the crisis peacefully, warning that failure to do so could lead to further escalations that might affect not just Rivers State but the entire country.
Labour’s Warning of Possible Nationwide Industrial Action
Although urging workers to remain calm and continue their duties, the Organized Labour warned that if their concerns were not addressed within a reasonable timeframe, they might be forced to take strategic union actions. Such actions, they noted, could disrupt national economic activities, as they would mobilize workers for industrial action to demand the reversal of the state of emergency and the protection of workers’ rights
The Rivers State Organized Labour reaffirmed its commitment to defending workers’ rights, constitutional governance, and economic stability. They urged all stakeholders, including the federal government, judiciary, and legislature, to act swiftly in resolving the crisis to prevent further damage to Rivers State and Nigeria’s economy.
