…demands Restoration of Democratic Institutions in Rivers State
By Katherine Abayomi
The 2025 Workers’ Day celebration was marked with a subdued atmosphere in Rivers State, as the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, Rivers State Council, opted out of the usual parades and rallies in protest against the ongoing political crisis in the state.
The decision, according to the union, was in response to the “hasty and unconstitutional” declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, which it described as a grave threat to democratic governance and constitutional order.
Speaking to journalists, the State Secretary of TUC, Comrade Dr. Jum Danagogo, condemned the political situation, stating that no democratic society can thrive when elected leaders are arbitrarily removed at the discretion of the President.
“The State of Emergency is a direct assault on democracy,” It sets a dangerous precedent, erodes constitutional governance, and threatens the autonomy of subnationanl governments. This should concern every citizen who believes in the rule of law.”
The Union called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately revoke the declaration in compliance with Section 305(6) of the Nigerian Constitution, which outlines the legal framework for declaring and managing a state of emergency.
“As the custodian of the nation’s executive powers, the President must exercise restraint, respect constitutional limits, and act in a manner that inspires national confidence rather than suspicion.”
He warned that decisions undermining democratic governance could destabilize the country and worsen socio-economic conditions.
“Nigerians have already endured the painful consequences of political overreach in the past. We cannot afford a repeat,” he added.
TUC also highlighted the economic risks posed by the political situation, noting that the state of emergency could lead to widespread business disruptions, job losses, wage cuts, and increased economic hardship for workers in both the formal and informal sectors.
“This crisis creates an atmosphere of uncertainty, discourages investment, and slows economic growth in Rivers State and beyond,” he warned.
Reaffirming the union’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers, Danagogo stressed that the TUC would not remain silent while political machinations threaten the livelihoods of citizens.
He urged President Tinubu to draw on his experience and democratic credentials and resist any temptation to adopt authoritarian methods reminiscent of the military era.
“We demand the immediate reversal of this unconstitutional state of emergency in the interest of democracy, economic stability, and the welfare of Nigerian workers. Our democracy must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency.”