The 2025 Workers’ Day in Rivers State took an unprecedented turn as the Trade Union Congress (TUC) abstained from the usual celebrations in fierce protest against the declaration of a state of emergency in the state. The union, representing thousands of workers, described the federal government’s action as reckless and legally indefensible.
In a tense press conference held at their Port Harcourt headquarters, the union issued a scathing statement, read by TUC State Secretary, June Danagogo, condemning President Bola Tinubu’s decision to dissolve the democratically elected government in Rivers under the guise of restoring order.
“The unilateral removal of Governor Fubara, his deputy, and the House of Assembly represents an alarming erosion of federalism and democratic checks,” Danagogo asserted. “This hasty declaration has no grounding in law and defies Section 305 of the Constitution.”
The TUC’s boycott of the traditional May Day event sent a strong political message. Instead of participating in the workers’ parade at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, the union opted for solidarity protests and internal dialogue focused on preserving democratic integrity and workers’ rights.
The union painted a grim picture of the potential fallout: weakened state autonomy, economic disruption, mass job layoffs, and increasing insecurity. “Our economy thrives on stability. This action introduces chaos into an already fragile system,” Danagogo warned.
He also drew parallels to Nigeria’s authoritarian past, warning that the current administration’s approach threatens to resurrect military-era governance tactics. “We are at a crossroads. The choice is between democracy and dictatorship,” he said, urging immediate reversal of the emergency declaration.
