By Rose Arekamhe
Benin city|Nigeria
Edo state Governor, Monday Okpebholo has officially lifted the ban on the activities of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor, made this announcement during the inauguration of the union’s newly elected executive at the Government House in Benin City.
The new leadership of the Edo NURTW, led by Comrade Saturday Oamen, was sworn in to a four-year term following years of dormancy and disarray within the union. Governor Okpebholo underscored the importance of the NURTW to the state’s economy, describing it as a vital arm of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) that serves the interests of ordinary citizens.
“This government recognizes the NURTW as an integral part of the workforce that represents the common man,” Okpebholo said. “We lifted the ban on the union’s activities because of the critical role it plays in Edo State’s transport sector and economy. Our administration is committed to ensuring peace, orderliness, and prosperity for the people of Edo State, and we believe that under this new leadership, the NURTW will reflect these values.”
The governor further expressed confidence in the leadership of the union’s national body under Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo. He noted that Edo’s renewed collaboration with the NURTW aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s *Renewed Hope Agenda*, promising that the state will benefit from long-overdue dividends of democracy.
“Edo State, under this administration, will witness unprecedented growth and development,” Okpebholo added. “We hope that this union will serve as a vehicle for positive change in the road transport sector, ensuring that no individual is oppressed, and peace reigns across the state.”
The inauguration, presided over by NURTW National Secretary, Comrade Kayode Agbeyana, marked the dawn of a new chapter for the union. Agbeyana commended the Edo State government for lifting the ban, stating that it demonstrates a commitment to restoring order and progress in the transport industry.
“The lifting of this ban reflects Governor Okpebholo’s dedication to justice and development,” Agbeyana said. “This inauguration is not just symbolic but a step towards peace, unity, and stability in Edo’s transport sector.”
Addressing the newly sworn-in executives, NURTW National President Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya charged the state leadership to prioritize inclusiveness and maintain harmony across all branches of the union. “Comrade Oamen must ensure that every member feels represented,” Akinsanya emphasized. “Success can only be achieved through cooperation and peace across all 18 local government chapters in Edo State.”
Edo State’s Acting Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Bernard Joman, hailed the lifting of the ban as a rescue mission for the union, which had suffered under prolonged, unrepresentative leadership. “For over 20 years, one individual dominated this union, causing stagnation,” Joman explained. “Governor Okpebholo’s decision to intervene and restore democracy within the NURTW is a commendable act that will bring relief and progress to Edo State.”
Newly inaugurated Edo State NURTW Chairman, Comrade Saturday Oamen, pledged to lead with fairness, accountability, and dedication to the welfare of union members. He assured both the state government and the national leadership of his commitment to peace and development within the transport sector.
“This is a new dawn for the NURTW in Edo State,” Oamen said. “We are ready to work hand-in-hand with the government to ensure that the transport sector thrives, while bringing peace and progress to our operations across the state.”
The event marks a turning point for Edo’s transport sector, which has long been hampered by leadership crises and inactivity within the NURTW. With the ban now lifted and a new leadership in place, stakeholders are optimistic that the union will contribute meaningfully to the state’s economy and improve the lives of its members.
Governor Okpebholo’s decision comes at a critical time for Edo State as it aligns with broader national goals of fostering development and creating opportunities for grassroots workers. By restoring the NURTW’s operations, the administration has taken a significant step towards addressing transportation challenges, promoting peace, and ensuring the inclusion of everyday citizens in the state’s progress.
The newly elected NURTW leadership will immediately begin operations across Edo’s major transport hubs, working to implement reforms and enhance services for commuters and union members. With a renewed mandate and government backing, the stage is set for a revitalized NURTW to contribute positively to the state’s development in the years to come.
