Organized labour unions in Rivers State are threatening to take drastic measures, including industrial actions that could severely impact the national economy, unless President Bola Tinubu reverses the emergency rule imposed on the state.
In a joint statement, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Joint Negotiation Council (JNC) expressed concerns over the economic and social implications of the emergency rule. They highlighted that the declaration has disrupted salary payments, leaving local government employees struggling to survive.
The unions also warned that the move has deterred potential investors from the state's "New Rivers Vision" development plan ¹. They emphasized that governance should prioritize citizens' safety and welfare over political interests.
To resolve the issue, the unions called on the President, National Assembly, and Judiciary to reverse the emergency rule and reinstate suspended elected officials .They urged the federal government to engage in genuine dialogue to prevent further escalation.
While urging workers to remain calm, the unions warned of "strategic union actions" that could disrupt national economic activities if their demands aren't met within a reasonable timeframe .