The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), has warned that it will not hesitate to withdraw the services of its members in all ports formations, jetties, terminals and oil and gas platforms in show of solidarity with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over its face-off with Kaduna State Governor, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai.
Communicating its position in a statement jointly signed by the President General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju and Com. Felix Akingboye, Secretary General of MWUN, it said that the leadership of the Union “received with rude shock, Kaduna State Governor’s call for the arrest and prosecution of Union leaders who are on peaceful demonstration against his maladministration”
MWUN stated that it is inconceivable that Mallam Nasir El-Rufai who claimed to be one of the progressive Governors continues to intimidate, harass and even branded Union leaders who are on peaceful protest as common criminals.
“Mallam El-Rufai who probably is still living in a stone age believes he can use the instrumentality of state to suppress the rights of workers.
“Maritime workers union of Nigeria believe that the primary function of a democratically elected Governor is to provide and maintain welfare services to its citizenry and not to trample upon their rights to decent work and pay.
“Reports also have it that Mallam El-Rufai has organised his thugs to disrupt the peaceful demonstration of the congress and thus put the lives of the NLC leaders and members in grave danger”, part of the statement said.
The Union reiterated its support for the congress’ action, while also calling on the Federal Government, State Governors traditional leaders and well-meaning Nigerians to prevail on El-Rufai to tow the path of diligence and due process.
“Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria hereby warn that it shall not hesitate to withdraw the services of its members in all ports formations, jetties, terminals and oil and gas platforms in solidarity with the congress should El-Rufai continue to threaten the lives of congress leaders and members”, it said.
By Roland Ekama
