The Appeal Court in Abuja has delivered a decisive blow to Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya, better known as MC Oluomo, by affirming Alhaji Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa as the legitimate President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). Once again, the law has proven its worth showing that no individual, regardless of their clout, can claim ownership of Nigeria. This ruling follows a similar decision by the National Industrial Court on March 11, 2024, which had already declared Baruwa as the rightful leader of the union.
MC Oluomo, apparently not satisfied with being on the losing end, rallied his faction led by Alhaji Najeem Usman Yasin and Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede to challenge the decision. However, the Court of Appeal didn’t waste time in dismissing their attempt. The three-member panel, consisting of Justices Hamma Akawu Barka, Nnamdi Dimgba, and Asmau Ojuolape Akanbi, unanimously declared the appeal “lacking in merit.” The judges left no room for doubt, confirming Baruwa’s election as NURTW president and upholding the previous ruling by the National Industrial Court.
In their words, “The evidence before the court clearly establishes Baruwa as the elected president of the NURTW.”
It’s a clear message: Baruwa is the chosen leader, and there’s no legal basis to overturn this decision.
The court slapped MC Oluomo’s faction with a ₦100,000 fine to be paid as damages to Baruwa and his supporters. It’s a fitting end to a months-long legal drama that has kept the union in suspense. With this ruling, Baruwa’s path to assume his leadership role is clear of any hurdles.
Now, the ball is in MC Oluomo’s court how will he handle this defeat? For a man whose influence has often overshadowed the union, this judgment serves as a reminder that no one is above the law.
