The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has instructed its members to refrain from joining the planned nationwide protest on October 1, 2024, which is being organized by unidentified individuals.
In a statement released on Monday, the MWUN President General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, stressed that the Union only partakes in industrial actions authorized by its established bodies, such as the Central Working Committee (CWC). He clarified that the upcoming protest was not initiated by the CWC or any affiliate of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), and as a result, MWUN members are not required to take part.
“As a Union made up of essential service providers and key economic players, our members are committed to maintaining continuous services,” Adeyanju said. He commended MWUN members for their dedication, particularly highlighting their efforts during the COVID-19 lockdown when they worked tirelessly despite the restrictions.
Adeyanju further explained that, “although the Union does not deny any Nigerian citizens their right to peacefully assemble and voice their concerns, the MWUN and its members do not engage in industrial actions that are not sanctioned by the Union’s recognized organs, such as the Central Working Committee (CWC).”
Reiterating the Union’s position, he concluded, “The planned protest on October 1st, 2024, was not called by the Union’s CWC, and we are under no obligation to participate.”
