The Forum of Former Labour Leaders in Rivers has condemned the declaration of emergency rule in the state.
At a press conference held on Thursday, the forum, led by Achese Igwe, former national president of NUPENG, expressed deep concern over the “undemocratic” developments in the state.
The forum called for the reinstatement of Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor; his deputy, Ngozi Odu; and members of the Rivers state house of assembly.
The group urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to take a stand against the “unconstitutional suspension of democracy” in Rivers state.
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“Tomorrow, 18th April will mark exactly one month since President Bola Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, suspending the democratically elected Governor Fubara, his Deputy Prof. Ordu, and the entire State House of Assembly for six months,” Igwe said.
“In what we consider a brazen and flagrant desecration of democracy and the rule of law, the President appointed Vice Admiral Ibolk-Ete Ibas (Rtd) as the Sole Administrator of Rivers State.”
The forum questioned the legality of the action, highlighting the “failure” to meet constitutional requirements, specifically the two-thirds majority vote in the national assembly.
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The forum also raised concerns about the “selective application” of the state of emergency in Rivers, particularly given that other states facing worse security challenges have not seen similar measures.
“The Forum is absolutely at lost to apprehend low the political crisis and upheavals in Rivers State that has warranted such extreme measures taken against the people,” he added.
”It is very glaring that this decision is taken in bad faith against the good people of Rivers State. On a very good standing, we can boldly say that Nigeria as a sovereign nation cannot stand or succeed without Rivers State.”
The forum appealed to the NLC and TUC to act decisively, urging them to join forces with civil society organisations and other well-meaning Nigerians to end the “undemocratic practices” in Rivers state.
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The group called on Tinubu to reconsider his actions and restore democratic governance in the state.
