Obaseki Loyalist Removed as Edo NLC Chairman

Edo NLC Chairman Ousted Amid Obaseki's Tenure End

“We cannot allow anybody to drag the name of the NLC into politics like was done in the immediate past, we must...”

Obaseki's 8-year tenure comes to a close: Edo NLC chairman sacked amidst power transition.

The Edo State chapter of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) ousted Chairman Comrade Odion Olaye on November 11, replacing him with Comrade Bernard Joman as acting chairman until fresh elections are conducted by the national leadership.

Governor Godwin Obaseki's tenure ends soon, and this development is seen as a significant shift in the state's labor landscape. The removal decision was made during a State Executive Committee meeting at Benin City's Labour House, where 27 out of 34 affiliated unions voted in favour.

Olaye rejected his removal, insisting his term expires in 2027 and he retains the right to seek re-election. “I remain the chairman,” he stated, setting the stage for a potential leadership dispute within the Edo NLC.

Details of the meeting and the removal process remain unclear, sparking speculation about the motivations behind Olaye's ousting. As the transition of power unfolds, labor unions and stakeholders eagerly await the NLC's national leadership response.

The Council of Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics Chairman, Osahon Omole, revealed that Comrade Odion Olaye's removal was largely due to his refusal to comply with a court order ousting him as NURTW state chairman. Furthermore, Olaye allegedly failed to pay union dues to NURTW for over 20 years.

A November 4, 2024 letter from NURTW, signed by State Secretary Godwin Aghimien, confirmed Olaye's removal, stating he was dismissed in 2023 and replaced by a caretaker committee. This documentation solidified the justification for Olaye's ousting.

NLC leaders also criticized Olaye for politicizing the labor union by openly supporting a party during the Edo State governorship election. This alleged infraction compromised the union's neutrality and integrity.

Key Reasons for Olaye's Removal:

1. Refusal to comply with court order removing him as NURTW state chairman
2. Non-payment of NURTW union dues for over 20 years
3. Involvement of labor union in politics, compromising neutrality

Documents:

NURTW letter (November 4, 2024) confirming Olaye's removal

Court order ousting Olaye as NURTW state chairman.

“We cannot allow anybody to drag the name of the NLC into politics like was done in the immediate past, we must salvage the union and this is the best time to do so,” the leaders said.

The newly appointed acting chairman of the Edo NLC has vowed to restore the union's integrity and prioritize workers' welfare above all else. This move is a significant step towards revitalizing the union's image and commitment to its members. With his background from the Amalgamated Union of Public Corporation, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees, he's well-equipped to drive positive change.

His pledge includes making workers' welfare the union's top priority, which aligns with Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo's commitment to prioritize workers' welfare in Kogi State. This renewed focus on workers' well-being is a welcome development, especially considering the current economic challenges facing the country.

Objectives:

Restore NLC Integrity: Rebuild trust and credibility within the union

Prioritize Workers' Welfare: Ensure members' needs are met and their rights protected

Drive Positive Change: Foster a better working environment and improved conditions for workers.

This new leadership promises a fresh start for the Edo NLC, and its members are likely eager to see the positive impact of these changes.