The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has dismissed allegations of possible government and financial influence in its forthcoming leadership election, describing the claims as baseless and misleading.
In a statement signed by the union’s Media Head, Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, MWUN criticised a report published by SHIPS & PORTS suggesting that external factors and financial resources would dictate the outcome of the election to succeed the current President-General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju.
“MWUN remains a democratically run organization guided strictly by its constitution. Our union’s tradition ensures a free and fair delegates’ conference devoid of external interference or monetary inducement,” Ikemefuna stated. “To suggest otherwise undermines the credibility of our electoral process and disrespects the integrity of our members.”
The union clarified that it only lifted the ban on campaign activities on January 6, 2025, and has not yet issued forms for aspirants to formally declare their interest.
Ikemefuna described speculations about candidates and their strategies as “premature and unverified,” urging stakeholders to refrain from spreading false information that could disrupt the unity of the union.
The statement also rejected claims that past MWUN leaders could influence the selection of its leadership.
“This union operates on the principles of discipline and respect for its constitutional guidelines,” Ikemefuna said. “The suggestion that past leaders interfere in the process negates the spirit of discipline and respect for rules that they worked tirelessly to establish and which continue to guide us today.”
While commending SHIPS & PORTS for acknowledging the achievements and neutrality of the incumbent President-General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, Ikemefuna emphasised that the union remains committed to ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
“We however thank the writer for recognising the good record that Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, the incumbent President-General, has maintained through his leadership by holding a neutral stance and ensuring a level playing field for all. Any claim suggesting otherwise are a construction intended to create division within the union. MWUN is committed to upholding its legacy of transparent and inclusive governance, as exemplified during Comrade Adeyanju’s tenure,” he said. “Our leadership election is not a political circus but a structured, democratic process designed to reflect the will of our members.”
As the union prepares for the upcoming transition of leadership, MWUN reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining stability in the maritime industry and prioritising the welfare of its members.
“We urge all stakeholders, including the media, to prioritise accuracy and impartiality in their engagements,” Ikemefuna concluded. “MWUN is focused on ensuring a seamless transition that upholds our legacy of equity and unity.”