National Union of Road Transport Workers

MC Oluomo elected NURTW national president – The Cable

MC Oluomo’s Controversial Rise: From Transport Union Leader to National NURTW President

In an advancement that has triggered both event and concern across Nigeria’s transport sector, Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya Akinsanya, popularly referred to as MC Oluomo, has actually become the National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) following a consensus election by union stakeholders and delegates.

The election, which took place at the Union’s Zonal Secretariat along the Osogbo/Ikirun road in Osun State, marks a significant turning point in the controversial figure’s career trajectory while raising major concerns about the crossway of transportation unions and political power in Nigeria.

The Rise to Power

Delegates from 4 South-West states– Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Ekiti– took part in the election, which saw MC Oluomo as the sole candidate.

The procedure was supervised by the acting National President of the union, Aliyu Issa-Ore, represented by Mrs. Adedamola Salam, Head of Finance from the National Headquarters in Abuja.

The election likewise led to the consultation of Tajudeen Agbede as Vice President of South-West and Akeem Adeosun as trustee from the zone.

In his approval speech, MC Oluomo called for unity within the union, stating, « I have forgiven everybody who angered me, and I want those I offended would forgive me as well. This is our union, and we should be dedicated to its conservation. We will not allow anyone to damage our ways of livelihood. »

A Controversial Past

Nevertheless, MC Oluomo’s ascension to the national presidency includes substantial baggage and debate.

Accusations of violence, political intimidation, and the weaponization of transport union structures for political functions marked his tenure as the chairman of the Lagos State chapter of NURTW.

Most notably, during the 2023 basic elections, MC Oluomo acquired nationwide attention for his questionable function in election-related violence and voter intimidation.

He was captured on video making threats versus Igbo citizens in Lagos State, cautioning them to either elect the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or remain at home. While he later on claimed the statement was a joke made to a good friend nicknamed « Iya Chukwudi, » the occurrence led to extensive condemnation and requires his arrest.

The consequences of his dangers emerged in election day violence, where political punks presumably conducted civil-war-era-style « eye tests » to recognize Igbo voters, avoiding many from exercising their democratic rights. These actions led to the development of a petition requiring international travel restrictions versus him, mentioning his function in inciting ethnic violence.

Opposition and Concerns

The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transportation employees, has emphatically opposed MC Oluomo’s rise to power. In a communique signed by Comrade Taiwo Ariyo and Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim, the group cited his questionable leadership style and declared use of union resources for individual gain as significant issues.

The group mentioned, « MC Oluomo’s management style is undesirable. He utilized union resources for individual gain, disregarding members’ well-being. » They also raised concerns about his capability to efficiently lead the national body, pointing to his history of conflicts with previous leaders and his controversial management style.

The NURTW’s Evolution

The NURTW, formed in 1978 as a follower to the Nigerian Road Transport Union, has progressed from an easy trade union into a powerful political force. With nearly 2 million members, the union has ended up being deeply embedded in Nigeria’s political landscape, typically acting as an important grassroots mobilization tool for politicians.

The union’s structure, which extends from major cities to remote areas, has made it an appealing partner for political actors seeking to establish control over regional communities. This has actually caused changing what was originally a transport employees’ union into what some critics refer to as an advanced network for political mobilization and, often, intimidation.

Political Influence and Violence

MC Oluomo’s rise exemplifies the complex relationship in between transportation unions and political power in Nigeria. As documented in different reports, he has contributed in the Southwest’s political campaigns and mobilization efforts, including noteworthy participation in the 2018 Osun State governorship election and subsequent political contests.

His methods of operation have actually frequently been criticized for blurring the lines between legitimate union activities and political thuggery. During the 2023 elections, his company was accused of disrupting polling units and frightening citizens, especially those perceived to be opposition advocates.

Legal Challenges and Institutional Response

The questionable nature of MC Oluomo’s leadership has resulted in different legal obstacles. Significant amongst these was a court order throughout the 2023 elections that prevented INEC from engaging his services to distribute election products in Lagos State, highlighting concerns about the politicization of important electoral procedures.

Future Implications

As MC Oluomo assumes the nationwide leadership of the NURTW, questions remain about the union’s future direction and function in Nigeria’s political landscape.

While his fans commemorate his capability to keep order and structure within the transportation sector, critics stress over the potential nationwide growth of what they view as a hazardous blend of transportation union power and political impact.

The appointment likewise raises broader concerns about the requirement for reform within Nigeria’s transportation union structure and the relationship between labour unions and political power.

As the nation continues to face concerns of democratic consolidation and ethnic consistency, the role of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely stay a subject of intense debate and scrutiny.

This development works as a defining moment for reflection on the state of Nigeria’s democratic organizations and the influence of non-state stars in the country’s political processes.

As MC Oluomo begins his tenure as National President, his actions will be carefully watched by advocates and critics alike, with considerable implications for the transportation sector and Nigeria’s more comprehensive political landscape.