The organised labour has issued a strong warning that it may embark on a nationwide strike if the Federal Government fails to reverse the state of emergency declared in Rivers State within a reasonable timeframe.
In a statement jointly signed by Alex Agwanwor, Rivers State Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC); Ikechukwu Onyefuru, Chairperson of the Trade Union Congress (TUC); and Chuku Emecheta, Chairperson of the Joint Negotiation Council (JNC), the unions condemned the declaration as illegal, disruptive, and detrimental to the economy.
Labour leaders criticised the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and House of Assembly members, describing it as unconstitutional and an affront to democracy. They argued that the removal of duly elected officials outside legal processes undermines the will of the people and sets a dangerous precedent.
The statement further highlighted the immediate economic hardship resulting from the emergency rule, particularly for local government workers who have not received their salaries. Labour warned that withholding wages amid rising inflation and a high cost of living has subjected workers to severe financial distress.
Additionally, the unions raised concerns about the broader economic implications, stressing that Rivers State plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s economy and the Niger Delta region. They cautioned that ongoing instability could deter investors, worsen unemployment, and escalate the country’s economic challenges, which already include naira devaluation, inflation, and high exchange rates.
“While we recognise the importance of maintaining law and order, governance must remain within the bounds of the Nigerian Constitution. The suspension of elected officials and disruption of salary payments violate fundamental rights and risk exacerbating security and economic crises,” the statement read.
Labour urged the Federal Government to prioritise citizens’ welfare over political interests, warning that any attempt to sacrifice workers’ well-being for political maneuvering would only heighten resistance and unrest.
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