Recently suspended Lagos NURTW chairman, Musiliu Akinsanya, more commonly known as MC Oluomo, has announced the exit of the Lagos State chapter of the union from the overall national body.
Oluomo’s statement follows the announcement of his suspension by the national leadership of the union over reports of misconduct, insubordination and incitement on March 9.
The national leaders of the union had instructed MC Oluomo to hand over to his deputy following his suspension.
MC Oluomo, however, said the decision to break away from the national body came from the pursuit of peace and general interest as all attempts to resolve the issues with the national body have proven abortive.
He said:
Being law-abiding and responsible citizens, we have decided to explore all avenues for peace in the interest of all, we will not support any action that can threaten the peace that we cherish so much in Lagos State,
Therefore, I, Comrade Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya, on behalf of the State Administrative Council (SAC), State Executive Council (SEC) members and the entire union rank and file members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Lagos State Council with over 200 branches and zones hereby resolve to immediately withdraw of our membership and operation from the national body of NURTW for peace to reign in Lagos State and to write the Lagos State Governor, Lagos State Ministry of Transportation (MOT) and other relevant agencies about our decision.
It is important to state that our action is in line with section 40 of the constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended, which provides as follows: Every person shall be entitled to assembly freely and associate with other persons, and in particular he may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any association for the protection of his or her interests. This means that every person shall be entitled to join an association and exit freely without molestation.
Mr Oluomo maintained that the decision to withdraw the Lagos NURTW chapter from the overall national body is constitutional and urged union members to go about their normal activities without fear.
He assured his members:
“If you see policemen in your parks, do not be afraid. They’re on the ground to protect us.”
