Organised Labour, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), has strongly condemned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s suspension of the Governor, Deputy Governor, and State House of Assembly members in Rivers State.

In a joint statement signed by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and his TUC counterpart, Festus Osifo, the unions described the decision as an unconstitutional assault on democracy, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent that threatens the nation’s democratic fabric.

“The purported suspension or removal of elected officials in Rivers State is unlawful and undermines constitutional governance,” the statement read. “No democratic society can thrive when elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the President’s discretion.”

Citing Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, the Labour leaders argued that the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State was illegal and an abuse of executive power. They warned that such actions could destabilize the economy, discourage investment, and expose citizens to security risks.

“Nigeria has suffered the painful consequences of political overreach in the past, and we cannot afford to repeat such mistakes,” the statement added. “This unjustified move will disrupt economic activities, lead to job losses, and create uncertainty in Rivers State and beyond.”

Labour called on President Tinubu to reverse the decision immediately, emphasizing that leadership demands wisdom, restraint, and a commitment to democratic principles. They urged him not to tarnish his legacy with actions reminiscent of military-era authoritarianism.

“The Labour movement will not stand by while workers’ livelihoods and the nation’s democratic institutions are undermined,” the statement concluded. “Nigeria’s democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.”