Labour Threaten Strike Over State of Emergency in Rivers

The organised labour has issued a strong warning that it may resort to nationwide industrial action if the state of emergency imposed in Rivers State is not reversed within a reasonable timeframe. In a joint statement, the Rivers State leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Joint Negotiation Council (JNC) condemned the declaration, calling it illegal and politically motivated.

The unions criticized the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and House of Assembly members, insisting that their removal outside constitutional processes undermines democracy. They urged the Federal Government to reverse the decision, warning that failure to do so would have serious economic and political consequences.

Labour leaders highlighted the immediate financial strain the state of emergency has placed on workers, particularly local government employees who have not received their salaries. They described the situation as an avoidable economic hardship, especially at a time when Nigerians are already struggling with inflation, naira devaluation, and rising unemployment.

The statement also noted that the crisis has scared off potential investors, impacting Rivers State’s internally generated revenue and slowing economic development. Labour warned that instability in the state could further disrupt the national economy, given Rivers’ strategic role in the Niger Delta region.

While acknowledging the need to maintain law and order, the unions insisted that governance decisions must align with the Nigerian Constitution. They accused the Federal Government of prioritizing political interests over citizens’ welfare and urged an immediate resolution to prevent escalating tensions.