MC Oluomo elected NURTW national president – Channels Television

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

In an advancement that has triggered both event and concern throughout Nigeria’s transport sector, Musiliu Akinsanya, commonly referred to as MC Oluomo, has emerged as the National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) following an agreement election by union stakeholders and delegates.

The election, which occurred at the Union’s Zonal Secretariat along the Osogbo/Ikirun road in Osun State, marks a substantial turning point in the controversial figure’s career trajectory while raising major concerns about the intersection 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 candidate.

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 resulted in the appointment of Tajudeen Agbede as Vice President of South-West and Akeem Adeosun as trustee from the zone.

In his acceptance speech, MC Oluomo called for unity within the union, mentioning, “I have actually forgiven everyone who offended me, and I wish those I offended would forgive me too. This is our union, and we need to be devoted to its conservation. We will not allow anyone to destroy our means of income.”

A Controversial Past

Nevertheless, MC Oluomo’s ascension to the nationwide presidency comes with considerable luggage and debate.

Claims 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 especially, throughout the 2023 basic elections, MC Oluomo gained nationwide attention for his questionable function in election-related violence and voter intimidation.

He was caught on video making threats against Igbo voters in Lagos State, alerting them to either choose the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or stay at home. While he later claimed the declaration was a joke made to a friend nicknamed “Iya Chukwudi,” the event resulted in widespread condemnation and requires his arrest.

The aftermath of his dangers materialized in election day violence, where political criminals supposedly carried out civil-war-era-style “eye tests” to recognize Igbo citizens, avoiding lots of from exercising their democratic rights. These actions led to the production of a petition calling for global travel bans against him, mentioning his function in prompting ethnic violence.

Opposition and Concerns

The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transport workers, has emphatically opposed MC Oluomo’s rise to power. In a communique signed by Comrade Taiwo Ariyo and Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim, the group mentioned his doubtful leadership design and alleged use of union resources for personal gain as substantial concerns.

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

The NURTW’s Evolution

The NURTW, formed in 1978 as a follower to the Nigerian Road Transport Union, has evolved from a basic trade union into an effective political force. With almost 2 million members, the union has actually ended up being deeply embedded in Nigeria’s political landscape, typically working as a crucial grassroots mobilization tool for political leaders.

The union’s structure, which extends from major cities to remote locations, has made it an appealing partner for political stars seeking to establish control over local communities. This has led to changing what was initially a transport workers’ union into what some critics refer to as a sophisticated network for political mobilization and, often, intimidation.

Political Influence and Violence

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

His methods of operation have typically been slammed for blurring the lines between legitimate union activities and political thuggery. Throughout the 2023 elections, his company was accused of interfering with polling systems and intimidating citizens, especially those perceived to be opposition advocates.

Legal Challenges and Institutional Response

The controversial nature of MC Oluomo’s management has resulted in various legal challenges. Significant amongst these was a court order throughout the 2023 elections that prevented INEC from engaging his services to disperse election products in Lagos State, highlighting concerns about the politicization of essential electoral procedures.

Future Implications

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

While his advocates celebrate his capability to maintain order and structure within the transportation sector, critics worry about the prospective across the country growth of what they see as a dangerous fusion of transport union power and political influence.

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

As the nation continues to grapple with issues of democratic consolidation and ethnic harmony, the role of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely stay a subject of extreme debate and analysis.

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

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