Lagos withdraws from NURTW national body after MC Oluomo’s suspension

The Lagos state chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, has withdrawn from the national body.

The move comes following the suspension of Lagos chapter chairman Musiliu Akinsanya popularly known as MC Oluomo by the national body of the NURTW.

Announcing the withdrawal on Thursday, Akinsanya said they were pulling out of the national body for peace to reign in Lagos state.

“Being a 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 Nationai Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Lagos State Council with over 200 Branches and Zones hereby resolve to immediate 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,” Akinsanya said.

He said they enjoyed freedom of association in line with section 40 of the Nigerian constitution, asking the state government “take over the management of any garage or motor park where there is a crisis until such is resolved by the consultative committee”.

“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.

“In view of this and the crisis at hand, Lagos State Government is hereby invited to consider its white paper on Transport Union activities, 2004 section 5C, which states that the government should take over the management of any garage or motor park where there is a crisis until such is resolved by the consultative committee.

“If you see policemen in your parks, do not be afraid. They’re on ground to protect us,” Akinsanya added.