MC Oluomo emerges NURTW President – Tunde Ednut

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

In an advancement that has stimulated both celebration and issue across Nigeria’s transportation sector, Musiliu 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 profession trajectory while raising major questions 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 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 also led to 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 required unity within the union, mentioning, « I have forgiven everyone who offended me, and I want those I upset would forgive me too. This is our union, and we must be devoted to its preservation. We will not allow anyone to damage our methods of livelihood. »

A Controversial Past

However, MC Oluomo’s ascension to the national presidency features substantial baggage and debate.

Claims 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 basic elections, MC Oluomo got nationwide attention for his questionable role in election-related violence and voter intimidation.

He was recorded on video making threats versus Igbo citizens in Lagos State, alerting them to either elect the judgment All Progressives Congress (APC) or remain at home. While he later declared the statement was a joke made to a pal nicknamed « Iya Chukwudi, » the incident resulted in widespread condemnation and requires his arrest.

The consequences of his threats materialized in election day violence, where political criminals presumably conducted civil-war-era-style « eye tests » to identify Igbo citizens, avoiding lots of from exercising their democratic rights. These actions resulted in the development of a petition requiring international travel restrictions versus him, mentioning his function in prompting ethnic violence.

Opposition and Concerns

The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transportation employees, has actually 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 leadership design and declared use of union resources for individual gain as substantial concerns.

The group stated, « MC Oluomo’s management design is unacceptable. He utilized union resources for personal gain, neglecting members’ welfare. » They also raised issues about his ability to efficiently lead the national body, pointing to 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 progressed from a basic trade union into an effective political force. With almost 2 million members, the union has actually become deeply embedded in Nigeria’s political landscape, often serving as an important grassroots mobilization tool for politicians.

The union’s structure, which extends from major cities to remote locations, has made it an appealing partner for political actors looking for to develop control over local communities. This has resulted in transforming what was initially a transportation workers’ union into what some critics describe as a sophisticated network for political mobilization and, often, intimidation.

Political Influence and Violence

MC Oluomo’s increase exemplifies the complex relationship between transport unions and political power in Nigeria. As recorded in different reports, he has actually been instrumental 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 frequently been criticized for blurring the lines in between genuine union activities and political thuggery. Throughout the 2023 elections, his company was accused of interfering with ballot systems and intimidating voters, particularly those viewed to be opposition advocates.

Legal Challenges and Institutional Response

The questionable nature of MC Oluomo’s leadership has actually led to numerous legal obstacles. Notable among these was a court order throughout the 2023 elections that prevented INEC from engaging his services to distribute election materials in Lagos State, highlighting issues about the politicization of necessary electoral procedures.

Future Implications

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

While his advocates commemorate his capability to keep order and structure within the transportation sector, critics stress over the potential across the country growth of what they see as a dangerous fusion of transport union power and political influence.

The visit also raises wider concerns about the need for reform within Nigeria’s transportation union structure and the relationship in between labour unions and political power.

As the country continues to come to grips with problems of democratic combination and ethnic harmony, the function of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely stay a subject of extreme debate and scrutiny.

This development serves as a defining moment for reflection on the state of Nigeria’s democratic organizations and the impact of non-state actors in the country’s political procedures.

As MC Oluomo begins his period as National President, his actions will be closely seen by fans and critics alike, with substantial implications for the transportation sector and Nigeria’s wider political landscape.