1 MC Oluomo elected as NURTW president - Guardian Newspaper
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MC Oluomo's Controversial Rise: From Transport Union Leader to National NURTW President
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In a development that has actually sparked both event and concern across Nigeria's transportation sector, Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya Akinsanya, commonly called MC Oluomo, has actually emerged as the National President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) following a consensus election by union stakeholders and delegates.
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The election, which happened at the Union's Zonal Secretariat along the Osogbo/Ikirun roadway in Osun State, marks a substantial turning point in the questionable figure's career trajectory while raising severe 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-- took part 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 resulted in the visit of Tajudeen Agbede as Vice President of South-West and Akeem Adeosun as trustee from the zone.
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In his approval speech, MC Oluomo called for unity within the union, stating, "I have forgiven everybody who offended me, and I want those I upset would forgive me as well. This is our union, and we should be dedicated to its preservation. We will not allow anybody to destroy our ways of livelihood."
A Controversial Past
However, MC Oluomo's ascension to the nationwide presidency comes with considerable baggage and controversy.
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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 got nationwide attention for his controversial function in election-related violence and voter intimidation.

He was recorded on video making threats against Igbo citizens in Lagos State, alerting them to either elect the judgment All Progressives Congress (APC) or remain at home. While he later on declared the declaration was a joke made to a buddy nicknamed "Iya Chukwudi," the occurrence caused widespread condemnation and requires his arrest.
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The aftermath of his dangers emerged in election day violence, where political criminals allegedly performed civil-war-era-style "eye tests" to recognize Igbo voters, avoiding numerous from exercising their democratic rights. These actions caused the production of a petition requiring worldwide travel restrictions versus him, mentioning his role in inciting ethnic violence.
Opposition and Concerns
The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transportation workers, 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 questionable leadership style and alleged use of union resources for individual gain as significant concerns.
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The group stated, "MC Oluomo's leadership design is inappropriate. He utilized union resources for personal gain, disregarding members' welfare." They also raised concerns about his capability to efficiently 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 successor to the Nigerian Road Transport Union, has evolved from an easy trade union into an effective political force. With almost 2 million members, the union has ended up being deeply embedded in Nigeria's political landscape, often working as an essential grassroots mobilization tool for political leaders.
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The union's structure, which extends from significant cities to remote areas, has actually made it an appealing partner for political stars looking for to develop control over local communities. This has led to changing what was initially a transportation employees' union into what some critics refer to as a sophisticated network for political mobilization and, sometimes, intimidation.
Political Influence and Violence
MC Oluomo's rise exemplifies the complex relationship between transport unions and political power in Nigeria. As documented in numerous reports, he has contributed in the Southwest's political campaigns and mobilization efforts, consisting of notable involvement in the 2018 Osun State governorship election and subsequent political contests.

His methods of operation have actually often been criticized for blurring the lines between legitimate union activities and political thuggery. During the 2023 elections, his company was implicated of interfering with polling units and daunting citizens, especially those viewed to be opposition supporters.
Legal Challenges and Institutional Response
The controversial nature of MC Oluomo's management has actually resulted in different legal obstacles. Notable among these was a court order throughout the 2023 elections that prevented INEC from engaging his services to disperse election products in Lagos State, highlighting issues about the politicization of necessary electoral processes.
Future Implications
As MC Oluomo presumes the national 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 maintain order and structure within the transportation sector, critics worry about the possible across the country growth of what they view as a dangerous combination of transport union power and political impact.
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The visit 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 come to grips with issues of democratic combination and ethnic harmony, the role of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely stay a topic of intense argument and scrutiny.

This development functions as a critical moment for reflection on the state of Nigeria's democratic organizations and the influence of non-state actors in the nation's political procedures.

As MC Oluomo starts his period as National President, his actions will be carefully watched by fans and critics alike, with substantial implications for the transportation sector and Nigeria's broader political landscape.
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