The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have fiercely criticized President Bola Tinubu’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it illegal and a danger to democracy.
The heads of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, and the TUC, Festus Osifo, both released a statement saying they don’t agree with the removal of Governor Sim Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and all members of the State House of Assembly. They believe this goes against Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, which explains how a state of emergency should be declared.
Labor groups worry this action weakens states’ power to govern themselves and creates a risky example of the executive branch going too far. They stressed that unfairly removing chosen leaders endangers Nigeria’s basic federal system. 
Beyond the constitutional implications, the NLC and TUC highlighted potential socio-economic repercussions. They warned that the state of emergency could disrupt economic activities, leading to business closures, job losses, and heightened economic hardship for workers in both formal and informal sectors.
The leaders of workers asked President Tinubu to cancel the emergency order right away. They want him to follow the rules of democracy and respect the law. They warned against actions that would remind people of military dictatorship, saying it’s important to protect Nigeria’s valuable democratic principles.
As the situation unfolds, the NLC and TUC remain vigilant, advocating for the protection of democratic institutions and the welfare of Nigerian workers.
This development continues to spark debates nationwide, with citizens and political analysts alike weighing in on the implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
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