By Comrade Abbas Ibrahim
I have followed with keen interest the recent media campaign by the leadership of Working People United (WOPU), particularly its National Coordinator, Mr. Williams Akporeha, in which he has consistently projected support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and attempted to portray that position as the collective voice of Nigerian workers.
While every Nigerian, including workers, has the constitutional right to support any political party or candidate of their choice, it is misleading and inappropriate for WOPU to create the impression that the organised labour movement has endorsed the political agenda of the ruling party.
The Labour Party was founded by the organised labour movement to provide a credible political platform through which Nigerian workers and ordinary citizens could pursue social justice, economic prosperity and good governance. Since its establishment, the party has remained rooted in the ideals of workers’ solidarity, equity and the welfare of the common people. Its enduring slogan, “Forward Ever,” reflects the universal spirit of the labour movement across the world.
Ordinarily, WOPU’s activities would not deserve a response. However, its deliberate attempt to speak on behalf of workers risks undermining the renewed efforts to rebuild and strengthen the Labour Party under the leadership of Senator Nenadi Usman. Following years of internal challenges and legal disputes, the party is now repositioning itself as a united, people-centred movement that brings together labour veterans, professionals, youths and progressive politicians committed to national transformation.
At this critical stage, our concern should not merely be the periodic review of the minimum wage but the pursuit of a living wage capable of meeting the realities of today’s economy. Nigerian workers continue to face severe economic hardship, rising inflation, high transportation costs and declining purchasing power. It would therefore be unrealistic to pretend that all is well.
The Labour Party remains the only political platform organically created by workers, with established structures across the 774 local government areas of Nigeria. It is the natural home for workers and all Nigerians who desire accountable leadership, social justice and people-oriented governance.
I therefore call on trade unionists, labour activists, professionals and all comrades across the country not to be distracted by politically motivated platforms claiming to speak for workers. Instead, they should unite under the Labour Party to collectively build a stronger movement that truly represents the interests and aspirations of Nigerian workers.
Comrade Abbas Ibrahim writes from Kano and can be reached @ abbas Ibrahim664@gmail.com