The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, Rivers State Chapter, and labour unions in the state have raised concerns about a potential security threat in the state.
According to ALGON Chairman, Prince Ichemati Ezebunwo, a planned protest by former local government chairmen and former members of the state House of Assembly and National Assembly members could lead to chaos and destabilize governance in the state.
The labour unions, comprising the Nigerian Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and Joint Negotiating Council, have also distanced themselves from the planned protest, which they believe is aimed at causing mayhem in the state.
The police have taken measures to maintain law and order, but the situation remains volatile, according to Independent.
The state government has urged citizens to remain calm and go about their lawful businesses.
The crisis in Rivers State is centered on the tenure of former local government chairmen, which has led to a standoff between the state government and the former chairmen.
Recall that the police have barricaded the local government secretariats to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The situation is being monitored closely by security agencies and stakeholders in the state.
The organised labour called on the Nigerian Police to be vigilant to arrest and prosecute any miscreant found to be breaching the unfettered peace of the State, adding that they were in support of the ongoing efforts of the state Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara in promoting a peaceful and prosperous State.
The statement reads, “The Organized Labour in River State has uncovered a wicked and unlawful plan of some miscreants to cause mayhem across Rivers State from Monday 24 June 2024 under the cover of the ultimatum issued by the Rivers State Organized Labour to the Inspector General of Police to allow the workers in the various Local Government Areas of Rivers State access to their offices for their statutory duties.
“We have it on good authority that some miscreants have been fully mobilized by the enemies of Rivers State to cause mayhem across the 23 Local Government Areas under the cover of the Organized Labour ultimatum which elapses by Monday 24 June 2024.
“On this note, we hereby disassociate ourselves from this wicked plan aimed at promoting the call for a state of emergency in Rivers State by some mischief makers.
“Subsequently, we hereby inform our Members and the General Public as follows: Rivers State Organized Labour has not directed anyone or group of persons to embark on any form of strike action or demonstration following the lockout of our members at the various Local Government Areas in Rivers State by the Nigerian Police.
“Impacted Affiliate Unions, especially The Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) is hereby directed to remain on standby until further notice for likely lawful industrial action.
“We call on the Nigerian Police to be vigilant to arrest/prosecute any miscreant found to be breaching the unfettered peace of Rivers State.
“We support the ongoing giant strides of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS to promote a peaceful and prosperous Rivers State.”
