From Richard Akintade, Osogbo
Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Osun State chapter, yesterday, raised alarm over the threat to life and the well being of its leaders by the All Progressives Congress, APC, vowing to remain steadfast in the fight against relentless tyranny.
A statement made available to our correspondent in Osogbo, the Osun State capital and signed by the State NLC Chairman, Comrade Christopher Arapasopo, alerted the public of open attacks and accusation that borders on the safety of NLC leaders because of their stance against the violation of the law and the constitution by the state APC.
Responding to APC’s statement against NLC and the National Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE, the labour leader wondered how Osun APC has been reduced to “a den of louts, charlatans and degenerates, wondering how it hopes to rewrite history about its responsibility for the current hardship and crisis rocking the local government system
“It speaks volumes that these political goons will purposely try to rewrite history and blame someone else for their follies and shortcomings”, he said, clarifying that “the only reason NULGE members were urged to remain at home was because of the events that occurred earlier this year, when members of the APC stormed local government secretariats unlawfully, destroyed public property and terrorised communities leading to loss of lives.
“The issue that sparked the violence has not been addressed, but the instigators and perpetrators claiming that the industrial action is pointless reveals a number of things, including their ruthlessness, lack of remorse and disregard for human lives.
“This party’s deviant behaviour and penchant for pandemonium are evidenced by its willingness to openly and explicitly denounce as enemies of progress, those who are attempting to maintain harmony and mediate in the conflict among various societal groups, myself included. It is unnerving when those who are looked upon to advocate for the progress, peace, protection and prosperity of those they serve celebrate delinquency.
“The fact that Osun State chapter of the APC is protesting too loudly and excessively against the conscious and resolute role of the State Congress of the Nigeria Labour Congress to maintain relative peace and safeguard lives and properties of Osun people shows that they thrive in hate and chaos”, the statement noted.
Speaking on his role as the NLC Chairman in Osun State, Arapasopo said he has been a veritable champion of human rights, fierce protector of the common man and a steadfast advocate of peacekeeping”, dismissing insinuations that he and his colleagues are paid agents of the governor.
“Labelling me as a mouthpiece funded by Governor Ademola Adeleke is a pathetic and blatant attempt to discredit me and my labour. It is a testament to the ruthlessness of the hoodlums in the party that they will stoop so low and stop at nothing to achieve their nefarious agenda.
“I will let them know that not everyone shares their vile beliefs and behaviours. They say I stay in hotels and travel with armed escorts under the pretence of security. Since they are well informed of my whereabouts and routine, it is clear that they are following me, which is seriously concerning given their prior behaviour.
“I call on the state and federal security services to take note of this subtle threat to my wellbeing and life, and hold them accountable if I suffer any negative consequences.
“Due to my decision to engage in discussions rather than dance to the rhythm of hooliganism, I am being vilified by some sycophantic bullies who believe that no one will hold it if they cannot have it.
“According to the APC, the industrial action has caused difficulty for everyone. As usual, they have overlooked the larger picture, which is that they caused this hardship by inciting political violence against people who disagree with them, encouraging others to also do so, killing, maiming and making sure that the average man lives in constant fear of his life and livelihood by refusing to engage in dialogue, negotiation and compromise.
“Their frustration also stems from their inability to entice members of NULGE to return to work so that they can start wreaking havoc on them again. I stand for peace and I will not intentionally jeopardise the lives, livelihoods and future of NULGE members or any other affiliates in order for phoney politicians to feel good about themselves and fill their own coffers with the labour, sweat and future of others.
“I urge NULGE workers to ignore this cry from the pit of hell to lure them back into the lions’ den. I urge you to ignore devilish designs to disparage my character.
“I urge you not to forget the real wolves behind your hardship. I urge you not to sympathise with those who are out to reap what you have sown with your blood, tears and decades of labour.
“I beseech all Osun State workers, pensioners and the entire masses to remember that the actions of the APC in recent years has made them nearly indigent.”
