Jesam Ofem (Trinity)
The Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN) today September 19, 2024, officially inaugurated Comrade Echip Enang as the new State Chairman of its Cross River branch, alongside 14 other newly elected executives at the Imoke Hall of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat, Calabar, Cross River State.
The inauguration ceremony was presided over by the National President of MOUN, Comrade Julius Oghenevwegba Bobi, who delivered a rousing charge to the new leadership. Bobi emphasized the need for unity, organization, and commitment, urging the Echip Enang-led executives to work diligently toward elevating the status of the union in Cross River State.
Bobi reflected on the union's formation, which began in 2016, noting the significant strides made since then.
"It wasn’t until we received approval from the then Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Chris Ngige, that the union truly took shape," he said.
He encouraged the newly inaugurated members to be proud ambassadors of MOUN, which seeks to reshape the public perception of motorcycle operators, often referred to as "Okada" riders.
“We aim to organize Okada operators in a way that earns them the respect of both the government and the people.
There has been a lot of misunderstanding surrounding Okada riding, but our vision for this union is guided by a higher purpose,” Bobi stated.
He also addressed the issue of bans on Okada operations in certain states due to security concerns, asserting that MOUN’s mission is to provide a framework for collaboration with various levels of government to resolve such issues.
“We are determined to work with Federal, State, and Local Governments to ensure that our members are seen as legitimate and responsible partners in the transport sector.”
He also advised the new Cross River leadership to serve as role models, emphasizing that Cross River State holds a special place in his heart.
"I urge the newly inaugurated executives to carry out their duties with diligence and integrity. Your success here can be an example for the entire country." He noted.
In her remarks, Mrs. Henrietta Offiong-Tabo, Controller of Labour at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in Cross River, pledged her support to the new executives. She noted plans to facilitate industrial training and labour-related education for the union’s leadership, ensuring that they are well-prepared for their roles.
The event also saw the attendance of the Cross River State Commissioner for Transportation and Marine Services, Hon. Ekpeyong Cobham, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Donatus Ejemot Esu.
Esu stated some of the ongoing efforts of the state administration to improve transportation infrastructure, including the restoration of traffic and street lights.
"Our goal is to create a safe and conducive environment for you to operate. We are here to support, not intimidate, you, and our doors are always open to discuss any challenges you may face," he assured the union members.
The Cross River State Chairman of the NLC, Comrade Gregory Ulayi, through a representative, welcomed the new MOUN executives into the larger fold of organized labour.
"You are now part of a powerful network that offers protection and bargaining power. However, with these benefits come responsibilities. Be organized, law-abiding, and respectful of the rules, as you are now accountable under the law."
In his acceptance speech, Comrade Echip Enang expressed gratitude to the Cross River State Governor, Senator (Prince) Bassey Otu, the national leadership of MOUN, law enforcement agencies, and both the NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) for their support. He particularly acknowledged the efforts of the NLC and TUC in granting MOUN recognition and affiliation.
"It is with their vision and determination that we have reached this milestone," he said.
Enang reiterated his commitment to upholding the laws and regulations governing the union's activities and called on all members to respect the government’s directives.
"We must operate within the confines of the law, especially in areas where our services have been restricted by the government. We will assist the government in enforcing these regulations to ensure we maintain a positive image," he noted.
He concluded by urging members to spread the message that the motorcycle operators of today, now aligned with the NLC, are different from those of the past.
"This is a new era for us, and we must all contribute to the success of this union," he concluded.
The event witnessed refreshments and an exchange of pleasantries by the new executives, dignitaries and visitors that graced the Inauguration Ceremony.
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