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MC Oluomo elected as NURTW president - ThisDayLive

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

In a development that has actually sparked both celebration and concern across Nigeria's transportation sector, Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya Akinsanya, widely called MC Oluomo, has actually become the National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) following an agreement election by union stakeholders and delegates.

The election, which happened at the Union's Zonal Secretariat along the Osogbo/Ikirun road in Osun State, marks a considerable turning point in the controversial figure's profession trajectory while raising severe concerns about the intersection of transport 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 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 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 forgiven everybody who upset me, and I want those I offended would forgive me also. This is our union, and we should be dedicated to its conservation. We will not enable anyone to damage our means of income."

A Controversial Past

However, MC Oluomo's ascension to the nationwide presidency comes with substantial baggage and controversy.

Accusations 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 significantly, throughout the 2023 basic elections, MC Oluomo got national attention for his questionable function in election-related violence and voter intimidation.

He was recorded on video making threats versus Igbo citizens in Lagos State, cautioning them to either choose the judgment All Progressives Congress (APC) or remain at home. While he later declared the declaration was a joke made to a pal nicknamed "Iya Chukwudi," the occurrence led to widespread condemnation and requires his arrest.

The after-effects of his threats emerged in election day violence, where political criminals presumably carried out civil-war-era-style "eye tests" to determine Igbo voters, preventing lots of from exercising their democratic rights. These actions led to the development of a petition calling for global travel restrictions versus him, citing his role in prompting ethnic violence.

Opposition and Concerns

The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transport workers, has vehemently 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 personal gain as considerable concerns.

The group stated, "MC Oluomo's management style is unacceptable. He used union resources for individual gain, overlooking members' well-being." They likewise raised concerns about his ability to successfully lead the national body, indicating his history of conflicts with previous leaders and his questionable management style.

The NURTW's Evolution

The NURTW, formed in 1978 as a successor to the Nigerian Road Transport Union, has actually progressed from an easy trade union into an effective political force. With almost 2 million members, the union has become deeply embedded in Nigeria's political landscape, typically working as an essential grassroots mobilization tool for politicians.

The union's structure, which extends from significant cities to remote areas, has made it an attractive partner for political stars looking for to establish control over regional communities. This has led to changing what was initially a transportation employees' union into what some critics describe as an advanced network for political mobilization and, often, intimidation.

Political Influence and Violence

MC Oluomo's increase exhibits the complex relationship between transportation unions and political power in Nigeria. As recorded in numerous reports, he has been instrumental 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 actually frequently been slammed for blurring the lines between genuine union activities and political thuggery. During the 2023 elections, his company was accused of interfering with ballot systems and frightening citizens, especially those viewed to be opposition fans.

Legal Challenges and Institutional Response

The questionable nature of MC Oluomo's management has actually caused different legal challenges. Noteworthy among these was a court order during the 2023 elections that prevented INEC from engaging his services to distribute election products in Lagos State, highlighting issues about the politicization of essential electoral procedures.

Future Implications

As MC Oluomo assumes the nationwide leadership of the NURTW, concerns remain about the union's future instructions and function in Nigeria's political landscape.

While his advocates celebrate his ability to preserve order and structure within the transport sector, critics fret about the prospective nationwide expansion of what they see as a hazardous combination of transport union power and political influence.

The visit likewise raises wider concerns about the requirement for reform within Nigeria's transport union structure and the relationship between labour unions and political power.

As the nation continues to grapple with concerns of democratic consolidation and ethnic harmony, the function of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely stay a subject of intense dispute 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 actors in the country's political processes.

As MC Oluomo begins his tenure as National President, his actions will be closely seen by supporters and critics alike, with significant ramifications for the transportation sector and Nigeria's broader political landscape.