MC Oluomo elected NURTW national president – Blueprint Newspapers Limited

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

In an advancement that has actually stimulated both celebration and concern across Nigeria’s transport sector, Musiliu Akinsanya, commonly known as MC Oluomo, has emerged as 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 roadway in Osun State, marks a significant turning point in the controversial figure’s profession trajectory while raising major questions about the crossway of transportation unions and political power in Nigeria.

The Rise to Power

Delegates from four South-West states– Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, and Ekiti– participated in the election, which saw MC Oluomo as the sole prospect.

The process was monitored 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 visit 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 upset me, and I wish those I offended would forgive me too. This is our union, and we need to be committed to its conservation. We will not enable anyone to damage our means of income.”

A Controversial Past

However, MC Oluomo’s ascension to the national presidency includes substantial luggage and debate.

Allegations of violence, political intimidation, and the weaponization of transportation union structures for political purposes marked his period as the chairman of the Lagos State chapter of NURTW.

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

He was captured on video making threats versus Igbo citizens in Lagos State, cautioning them to either choose the judgment All Progressives Congress (APC) or stay at home. While he later on declared the statement was a joke made to a buddy nicknamed “Iya Chukwudi,” the incident led to prevalent condemnation and requires his arrest.

The consequences of his dangers materialized in election day violence, where political hooligans presumably carried out civil-war-era-style “eye tests” to identify Igbo voters, preventing lots of from exercising their democratic rights. These actions led to the development of a petition requiring international travel bans versus him, citing his function in inciting ethnic violence.

Opposition and Concerns

The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transport employees, has vehemently opposed MC Oluomo’s rise to power. In a communique signed by Comrade Taiwo Ariyo and Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim, the group cited his doubtful management style and declared use of union resources for personal gain as significant concerns.

The group specified, “MC Oluomo’s leadership design is inappropriate. He utilized union resources for personal gain, neglecting members’ well-being.” They also raised issues about his capability to successfully lead the national body, pointing to his history of conflicts with previous leaders and his controversial management design.

The NURTW’s Evolution

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

The union’s structure, which extends from significant cities to remote areas, has made it an appealing partner for political actors seeking to develop control over regional neighborhoods. This has resulted in changing what was originally a transportation employees’ union into what some critics describe as a sophisticated network for political mobilization and, in some cases, intimidation.

Political Influence and Violence

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

His methods of operation have actually typically been slammed for blurring the lines between legitimate union activities and political thuggery. During the 2023 elections, his organization was accused of interrupting ballot units and daunting voters, especially those perceived to be opposition supporters.

Legal Challenges and Institutional Response

The controversial nature of MC Oluomo’s management has actually resulted in numerous legal difficulties. Noteworthy amongst these was a court order throughout the 2023 elections that prevented INEC from engaging his services to disperse election materials in Lagos State, highlighting concerns about the politicization of vital electoral processes.

Future Implications

As MC Oluomo assumes the nationwide management of the NURTW, questions remain about the union’s future instructions and role in Nigeria’s political landscape.

While his supporters commemorate his capability to maintain order and structure within the transportation sector, critics stress over the potential across the country growth of what they view as a harmful blend of transportation union power and political impact.

The consultation also raises broader questions about the need for reform within Nigeria’s transport union structure and the relationship between labour unions and political power.

As the country continues to grapple with issues of democratic combination and ethnic consistency, the role of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely remain a topic of intense argument and scrutiny.

This advancement works as a critical moment for reflection on the state of Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the influence of non-state actors in the country’s political processes.

As MC Oluomo starts his tenure as National President, his actions will be carefully viewed by advocates and critics alike, with substantial ramifications for the transportation sector and Nigeria’s broader political landscape.