Leadership Crisis Deepens in Lagos NURTW as MC Oluomo Clings to Power Amid Allegations

For nearly two months, the Lagos chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has been embroiled in turmoil over its leadership.

Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, who served as the chairman for the past four years, faced opposition from members claiming that his leadership did not align with the union’s interests. They expressed a preference for Alhaji Mustapha Adekunle, aka Tafa Sego, to assume the role of the new state chairman.

Initially defiant against stepping down, MC Oluomo confronts a significant backlash, with nearly 198 out of 205 branch chairmen in Lagos signing a vote of no confidence against him. Interventions from the Lagos state government, HRM Oba Saheed Ademola Elegushi, and other influential figures prompt MC Oluomo to consider resigning and pursue the national office of the Union.

READ ALSO: How MC Oluomo Fell Out Of Favour,  Lost Lagos NURTW Chairman Position

In a public declaration, he announces his decision to relinquish the state chairman position, endorsing Alhaja Mustapha Adekunle, aka Sego, as his successor, with a commitment to a seamless handover within a month.

Despite the passage of a month, allegations surface that MC Oluomo has reneged on his commitment, citing ambitions to secure the national president’s seat before stepping down as the Lagos state chairman. The members of the Lagos union issue stern warnings, urging MC Oluomo to fulfill his promise and appealing to the Lagos state government for intervention to restore order.

MC Oluomo, now out of favor with union members, faces accusations that his leadership prioritized personal interests over the union’s welfare. At a recent gathering in Lagos, top union members, led by Comrade Abdul-Azeez Abiola, aka Istijabah, the Caretaker Committee Chairman overseeing tricycle activities (Keke Marwa), address the ongoing crisis.

During his address, Istijabah implores the Lagos State government, the commissioner for transport, and the commissioner for police to intervene, emphasizing MC Oluomo’s perceived lack of contribution to the union’s development. Istijabah asserts that Mustapha Sego consistently supports association members by providing vehicles, buses, and tricycles, a stark contrast to MC Oluomo.

Revealing unfulfilled promises by MC Oluomo, including the purchase of vehicles and land for state executives, Istijabah claims that MC Oluomo’s actions contributed to the APC’s loss in the presidential election in Lagos State. He alleges that loyal members mobilizing for the party were replaced with individuals from Oshodi, MC Oluomo’s stronghold.

Comrade Abdul-Azeez Abiola hints at the national union’s determination not to allow external influence in determining the national president, emphasizing MC’s strained relations with many members.

The due process will be followed to elect the national president, with plans for a national conference in Abuja. Five delegates from each state will play a crucial role in deciding the next National President.

As the situation unfolds, MC Oluomo faces an intricate landscape, compounded by a reported fallout with President Bola Tinubu over the last election, casting uncertainties on his prospects in the race for the national president seat.