NLC Dares Delta Govt: End MOUN Harassment In 14 Days Or Face Industrial Crisis
By: Celestine Ukah
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a final two-week ultimatum to the Delta State Government over what it called the continued harassment, intimidation and detention of members of the Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN).
In a strongly-worded letter to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Congress said it could no longer guarantee industrial peace in the state if the alleged attacks on MOUN are not stopped.
The NLC dismissed allegations against MOUN, stressing that the union is duly registered, affiliated to the NLC, and empowered by Section 12 of the Trade Unions Act to organise motorcycle operators and collect dues.
It maintained that COMTOA has no legal standing as a trade union under Nigerian labour laws to carry out the functions it is claiming.
The Congress accused senior officials of the Delta State Government of backing what it described as a shadowy organisation, warning that government interference in union affairs is unacceptable.
It called on Governor Oborevwori to call the officials to order, noting that their actions are not only undermining MOUN but also tarnishing the image of his administration.
According to the NLC, it has waited for over three years for an amicable settlement, but patience has run out.
Copies of the letter were sent to the Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General of the DSS, the Federal Controller of Labour in Delta State, the National President of MOUN, the Chairperson of NLC Delta State Council, and Comrade Julius Bobi, Deputy National President of MOUN.
The Congress urged the governor to act swiftly to avert a breakdown of industrial relations in the state.
