The Rivers State chapter of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has boycotted the 2025 May Day celebration, citing the erosion of democratic governance in the state as its primary reason.
The boycott followed directives from the TUC national leadership, which instructed the state council to abstain from participating in this year’s Workers’ Day activities until democratic institutions are fully restored in Rivers State.
Addressing journalists at the TUC Secretariat in Port Harcourt, the State Secretary of the Union, Comrade Dr. Jum Danagogo, said no democratic society can survive where elected leaders are removed arbitrarily at the discretion of the President.
He described the recent suspension or removal of the state’s Governor, Deputy Governor, and members of the House of Assembly as unlawful and a direct assault on democracy.
“This action sets a dangerous precedent, eroding constitutional governance and threatening the autonomy of sub national governments. We therefore call on Mr. President to revoke this unconstitutional declaration, in compliance with Section 305(6) of the Constitution, which outlines the proper legal process for declaring and sustaining a state of emergency.”
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He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to uphold democratic values, warning that any action undermining democracy could jeopardize national security, economic stability, and public trust.
“Nigeria has paid dearly for political overreach in the past. We must not repeat the mistakes of history,” Danagogo added.
The TUC warned that the imposed state of emergency would have far-reaching socio-economic consequences, including disruption of economic activities, business closures, job losses, and heightened insecurity.
According to the union, the move has already created uncertainty, discouraging investment and slowing growth in Rivers State and beyond.
“The labour movement will not remain silent while the livelihoods of workers and the well-being of ordinary Nigerians are threatened by political machinations.”
He called on President Tinubu to reflect on his democratic legacy and refrain from actions reminiscent of authoritarian regimes.
“We demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional state of emergency in the interest of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of all Nigerians. Democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency,” he concluded
