Following a recent fracas between the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) and members of the Lagos State Truck and Cargo Operators Committee (LASTCOC), and the Nexus Association of Maritime Truck Operators (NAMTOP) at Tin Can Island port last week, all parties have agreed to embrace peace and collaborate for improved port operations.
This agreement was reached at a meeting convened by the MWUN President-General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, and attended by the Commissioner of Police, Western ports; Olanrewaju Ishola, where the trucking unions agreed to work in peace and harmony.
Recall that there was pandemonium at the TinCan island port last week, over sale of tickets and collection of fee from the truckers.
Speaking at the meeting, the President General MWUN, Com.Adewale Adeyanju expressed gratitude for the collective effort towards finding a common ground.
He emphasized the need for adherence to established regulations within the port, highlighting its significance as a regulated zone distinct from informal markets.
“The Port is a regulated area, where before you do anything, you must have a legitimate business. Port is not Jankara market, the port is not a garage where some people use for their own selfish interest”, he said.
Adeyanju stressed the importance of collaboration rooted in legality and mutual respect among stakeholders, underscoring the transformative strides achieved by Nigerian maritime workers through unity.
Adeyanju further lamented the unwarranted attacks on its members at the port, stating that five of its members had been killed over illegal collection of fees at the Tin Can port.
He also declared that LASTCOC is not a member of the collaboration between NARTO NAMTOP and MWUN that is duly recognised by authority, he however said the issue of LASTCOC will be resolved amicably soon.
He noted that the MWUN has transformed from what it used to be known for, by embracing peace, even as he implored other associations to do so.
Speaking at the meeting a trucker; Chief Remi Ogungbemi a member of the Board of Trustees of NAMTOP reiterated the value of peace.
He urged sustained efforts towards enduring peace, emphasizing the collective responsibility in fostering harmonious relationships within the industry.
On his part, Alh. Ishola Salami, a member of the BoT NAMTOP, echoed sentiments of fraternity between truckers and the union, emphasizing the novelty of such unified efforts after three decades in the industry. He emphasized the pivotal role of peace in ensuring the effectiveness of collaborative endeavours.
Mr Stephen Okafor, representing NARTO, celebrated the restoration of peace and affirmed the irreversible commitment to collaboration among the parties. Okafor stressed the collective resolve to overcome past challenges and chart a prosperous path forward.
Speaking also, Mr Leye Thompson of NAMTOP underscored the significance of unity, refuting any notion of NAMTOP being a disruptive force. He emphasized the need for a robust bond between truckers and the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria to surmount industry challenges effectively.
On his part, Lukman Shittu, a.k.a Zangalo Chairman of LASTCOC, echoed the call for unity, emphasizing the shared identity and mutual goals of both maritime and trucking sectors. He advocated for peaceful coexistence and collaboration to advance industry interests.
In conclusion, the stakeholders collectively affirmed their commitment to peace and collaboration, recognizing it as the cornerstone for sustainable progress within the maritime industry.
