By DADA AYOKHAI
Edo State government recently opened its doors to host the inauguration of Newly elected executive of the National Union of Road Transport workers, NURTW at the Dennis Osadebe Government House in Benin City.
Observers noted that this special treatment extended to the NURTW is unprecedented and reflects the Sen Okpevbolo administration’s commitment to ease out the Odion Olaye leadership of the union and the state chapter of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC.
For many NURTW members who attended the event, it was a memorable occasion, offering them a rare glimpse into the Government House.
Edo State governor was represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr Musa Ikhilor at the inauguration ceremony.
According to a press statement from the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr Fred Itua, the NURTW said the newly executives led by Comrade Saturday Oamen vowed to reciprocate Govt gesture by working towards peace and progress in the state.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presence of the controversial NURTW National President, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC Oluomo, which added excitement to the event.
Sen Okpevbolo reportedly used the occasion to announce the lifting of the ban on NURTW activities in the state.
The Edo State government had suspended NURTW activities shortly after Sen Okpevbolo was sworn in, aiming to prevent any potential breakdown of law and order.
During the event, the governor urged the Union to avoid actions that might cast it in a negative light before the public.
He emphasized that, as part of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Union should prioritize the interests and well-being of Edo State citizens above all else.
Sen Okpevbolo also congratulated MC Oluomo on his recent election as the National President of the NURTW, stating that his victory reflects the confidence of the Union’s members.
He encouraged him to leverage this trust to build a strong and resilient Transport Union nationwide.
”I express my profound appreciation for the support I received during the campaigns,” the governor stated.
”This is why I decided to lift the ban on the Union and welcome you here today.
”This government is for the people. We recognize the NURTW as part of the NLC, representing both workers and citizens. Therefore, my administration will support and collaborate closely with the Union to promote peace, orderliness, and progress in Edo State.
”We take the Union very seriously because it serves the common man, whom the government represents. We are pleased and confident in the Union’s leadership and believe it will help bring the necessary peace and order to the state.”
The governor added that Edo State is aligning with President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda, promising that the people of Edo will soon begin to reap its benefits.
