The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has firmly disassociated itself from the nationwide protest against hunger scheduled for August 1, 2024. In a statement, MWUN’s President-General, Prince Adewale Adeyanju, emphasized that the Union would not tolerate any invasion of port facilities by protesters, warning that such actions could disrupt essential services and harm the nation’s economy.
Adeyanju’s statement, conveyed through the Union’s Head of Media, John Ikemefuna, highlighted MWUN’s commitment to lawful and orderly industrial action. “As an affiliate of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, and a responsible Union, we always heed calls of the NLC to participate in any industrial strike or in a coordinated, lawful or orderly industrial action, which is not the case of the planned protest,” Adeyanju stated.
The union stressed the importance of maintaining order and ensuring the safety of its members and the public. “MWUN under the leadership of the President-General, Adeyanju, disassociates its executives, officials, and entire members from the planned protest. There is no way we can be connected to the individuals responsible for the planned nationwide protest,” the statement read.
MWUN urged its members to steer clear of any protests at terminal jetties or oil and gas platforms, warning against the potential involvement of hoodlums who could exploit the situation to cause chaos. The Union reminded its members of the painful memories of the #EndSars protests and the importance of avoiding similar situations.
In a separate statement, renowned socio-political activist Adesunbo Onitiri voiced concerns about the potential for the protest to be hijacked by violent elements, which could destabilize Nigeria’s democracy. He called for dialogue instead of public protests, emphasizing that the current security, economic, and political situation in the country requires caution.
Onitiri acknowledged the challenges facing Nigerians, including hunger and economic hardship, but stressed that protests are not the solution. “Our youths should be guardians of our democracy, involving more in nation building and not unproductive national protests,” he stated. Onitiri praised Nigerian youths for their patience and understanding and urged them to focus on contributing to the nation’s development.
He further noted that the government is making efforts to address the country’s problems and that collective cooperation is necessary to find lasting solutions. “By empowering and engaging youths, nations can tap into their creativity, energy, and idealism, driving positive change and building a brighter future,” Onitiri remarked.
