The Court of Appeal in Abuja has confirmed Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa as the legitimate president of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). This decision upholds an earlier judgment of the National Industrial Court delivered on March 11, 2024.
The appellate court dismissed the appeal filed by Najeem Usman Yasin, Tajudeen Agbede, and others, ruling that the appeal lacked merit. It therefore upheld the industrial court’s decision, which validated Baruwa’s presidency.
The court’s ruling also restrained Alh. Najeem Usman Yasin, the former president of the union, from interfering in the day-to-day running of union affairs. Baruwa was declared the winner of the NURTW election held on May 24, 2023.
The National Industrial Court in its judgment on March 11, 2024, sacked the Tajudeen Agbede-led Caretaker Committee of the NURTW. The court validated the Quadrennial National Delegates Conference held on August 23, 2023.The election that took place on November 9, 2024, which saw MC Oluomo emerge as the National President of the NURTW, has been nullified by the Appeal Court. This means that the election that brought MC Oluomo to power is not legitimate.
MC Oluomo’s rise to power as the sole candidate for NURTW National President might be linked to his strong ties with President Bola Tinubu’s administration. His history of controversy is well-documented, including accusations of using thugs to disrupt elections and intimidate opponents.
The Appeal Court’s decision has sparked reactions from Nigerians, with some praising the court for upholding justice. Others have criticized the ruling, saying it will not change the status quo.
The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has been embroiled in a leadership crisis, with different factions vying for control. The Appeal Court’s decision is expected to bring an end to the crisis, with Baruwa now recognized as the legitimate president of the union.
Source: https://www.lindaikejisblog.com
