The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State has called on the Inspector General of Police and the Rivers State Police Command to restore peace and order in the local government councils, and allow workers to return to their duties.
Alex Agwanwor, the NLC Chairman in Rivers State, expressed concerns over the ongoing lockdown of local government offices, which he said has prevented workers from performing their duties.
According to the report by Arise News on Wednesday, he said, "Our members are not allowed access into the secretariat to carry out their legitimate duties."
The lockdown was imposed following the expiration of the tenure of former local government chairmen on June 17 and the subsequent appointment of caretaker committees.
The police had taken control of the councils to prevent potential violence from outgoing chairmen.
Agwanwor said that while the NLC supports the police's efforts to ensure security, they are troubled by the restriction on workers.
The union issued an ultimatum until June 24 but suspended strike actions due to a plot by politicians to incite violence.
The state governor had directed local government workers to work from home.
The NLC said that they appreciate the police's efforts but urged them to allow workers to access their duty posts once peace is restored.
Agwanwor stressed the impact of the lockdown on local government functions, including community healthcare and sanitation, and criticized the prolonged court processes.
He expressed concern for the welfare of workers, saying that their salaries are ongoing, but the crisis should not affect them.
The NLC also condemned any attempt to instigate violence in Rivers State, affirming that the state is peaceful and accommodating.
Agwanwor said, "The earlier the IG and police provide peace and order within the councils and allow workers to go back to their legitimate duties, the better."
In addition to that, he said, "The salaries for the local government workers are ongoing, but we can't allow our members to suffer a crisis they did not cause."