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

In a development that has sparked both celebration and concern across Nigeria's transport sector, Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, has 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 milestone in the questionable figure's profession 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-- 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 likewise led to 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 wish those I upset would forgive me too. This is our union, and we must be dedicated to its preservation. We will not permit anyone to damage our means of livelihood."
bit.ly A Controversial Past
However, MC Oluomo's ascension to the national presidency comes with substantial luggage and debate.
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Accusations 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.
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Most significantly, during the 2023 basic elections, MC Oluomo acquired nationwide attention for his controversial function in election-related violence and citizen intimidation.
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He was caught on video making threats against Igbo citizens in Lagos State, cautioning them to either vote for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) or stay at home. While he later on declared the statement was a joke made to a pal nicknamed "Iya Chukwudi," the event caused widespread condemnation and calls for his arrest.
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The after-effects of his threats materialized in election day violence, where political goons presumably carried out civil-war-era-style "eye tests" to determine Igbo citizens, avoiding many from exercising their democratic rights. These actions caused the creation of a petition requiring worldwide travel bans versus him, citing his role in inciting ethnic violence.
Opposition and Concerns
The Concerned Transporters in South West of Nigeria, a group of transport workers, has emphatically 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 alleged use of union resources for personal gain as significant issues.

The group mentioned, "MC Oluomo's management design is inappropriate. He used union resources for individual gain, disregarding members' well-being." They also raised issues about his capability to successfully lead the nationwide 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 follower to the Nigerian Road Transport Union, has progressed from a simple trade union into an effective political force. With nearly 2 million members, the union has actually ended up being deeply embedded in Nigeria's political landscape, often functioning as an important grassroots mobilization tool for politicians.
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The union's structure, which extends from significant cities to remote areas, has made it an appealing partner for political stars looking for to develop control over local communities. This has actually caused transforming 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 rise exemplifies the complex relationship in between transport unions and political power in Nigeria. As documented in different reports, he has actually contributed 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 actually frequently been slammed for blurring the lines in between legitimate union activities and political thuggery. Throughout the 2023 elections, his organization was implicated of disrupting ballot systems and intimidating voters, particularly those perceived to be opposition advocates.
Legal Challenges and Institutional Response
The questionable nature of MC Oluomo's leadership has resulted in numerous legal challenges. Notable among these was a court order throughout the 2023 elections that prevented INEC from engaging his services to disperse election materials in Lagos State, highlighting issues about the politicization of essential electoral procedures.
Future Implications
As MC Oluomo presumes the nationwide leadership of the NURTW, concerns stay about the union's future instructions and function in Nigeria's political landscape.

While his supporters commemorate his capability to keep order and structure within the transport sector, critics stress over the possible nationwide expansion of what they view as a harmful combination of transport union power and political influence.

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

As the nation continues to come to grips with issues of democratic consolidation and ethnic consistency, the function of prominent union leaders like MC Oluomo will likely stay a topic of intense argument and examination.

This advancement serves as a defining moment for reflection on the state of Nigeria's democratic organizations and the impact of non-state actors in the nation's political processes.

As MC Oluomo begins his period as National President, his actions will be carefully enjoyed by fans and critics alike, with significant implications for the transport sector and Nigeria's more comprehensive political landscape.