Oluomo emerges NURTW national president - Peoples Gazette Nigeria

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

In an advancement that has sparked both event and concern throughout Nigeria's transport sector, Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya Akinsanya, widely called 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 road in Osun State, marks a substantial milestone in the questionable figure's profession trajectory while raising major questions about the intersection of transport 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 prospect.

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 also led to the appointment of Tajudeen Agbede as Vice President of South-West and Akeem Adeosun as trustee from the zone.

In his approval speech, MC Oluomo required unity within the union, stating, "I have forgiven everybody who offended me, and I want those I offended would forgive me as well. This is our union, and we must be devoted to its preservation. We will not allow anyone to damage our means of income."

A Controversial Past

Nevertheless, MC Oluomo's ascension to the nationwide presidency features considerable baggage and controversy.

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

Most especially, during the 2023 general elections, MC Oluomo gained national attention for his questionable function in election-related violence and citizen intimidation.

He was recorded on video making threats versus Igbo voters in Lagos State, cautioning them to either vote for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or remain at home. While he later declared the declaration was a joke made to a buddy nicknamed "Iya Chukwudi," the incident resulted in extensive condemnation and requires his arrest.

The consequences of his dangers emerged in election day violence, where political thugs presumably conducted civil-war-era-style "eye tests" to determine Igbo citizens, preventing numerous from exercising their democratic rights. These actions caused the production of a petition requiring worldwide travel bans versus him, mentioning his role in prompting ethnic violence.

Opposition and Concerns

The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transportation workers, has actually 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 style and alleged use of union resources for individual gain as considerable concerns.

The group mentioned, "MC Oluomo's management style is unacceptable. He utilized union resources for individual gain, ignoring members' welfare." They likewise raised issues about his capability to successfully lead the nationwide body, indicating 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 progressed from an easy trade union into a powerful political force. With nearly 2 million members, the union has become deeply embedded in Nigeria's political landscape, typically functioning as a crucial grassroots mobilization tool for politicians.

The union's structure, which extends from significant cities to remote locations, has made it an appealing partner for political actors seeking to establish control over regional communities. This has actually resulted in changing what was initially a transport employees' union into what some critics describe as an advanced network for political mobilization and, in some cases, intimidation.

Political Influence and Violence

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

His methods of operation have often been slammed for blurring the lines between genuine union activities and political thuggery. Throughout the 2023 elections, his organization was accused of interfering with ballot systems and frightening voters, especially those perceived to be opposition fans.

Legal Challenges and Institutional Response

The controversial nature of MC Oluomo's management has caused various legal challenges. Significant among these was a court order throughout the 2023 elections that avoided 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 assumes the national management of the NURTW, concerns stay about the union's future instructions and function in Nigeria's political landscape.

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

The consultation likewise raises wider questions about the need for reform within Nigeria's transportation union structure and the relationship in between labour unions and political power.

As the nation continues to face issues of democratic consolidation and ethnic consistency, the function of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely stay a topic of intense dispute and scrutiny.

This advancement works as a defining moment for reflection on the state of Nigeria's democratic organizations and the influence of non-state stars in the nation's political procedures.

As MC Oluomo starts his period as National President, his actions will be closely viewed by supporters and critics alike, with significant ramifications for the transport sector and Nigeria's wider political landscape.