The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has dismissed a recent media report alleging that its forthcoming leadership election is being influenced by external forces, describing the claims as “premature, baseless and laughable.”
The report, published by maritime industry magazine on January 6, 2025, suggested that eight aspirants were vying for the union’s presidency under the shadow of alleged government and financial influences. MWUN has rejected these claims, stating that its campaign process only began on January 6, and aspirants have not even received forms to declare their intentions.
A statement signed by the union’s Deputy Publicity Secretary, Comrade Oniha Erazue, and Head of Media, Comrade John Ikemefuna, described the report as misleading and aimed at destabilising the union.
The statement reads: “The attention of the Maritime Workers’ Union Of Nigeria, MWUN, has been drawn to an article titled ‘MWUN Presidency: Eight Aspirants Jostle to Succeed Adeyanju Amidst Government, Financial Influences’ published on January 6, 2025.
“While we acknowledge the importance of an informed public discourse on matters affecting our esteemed union, we find it necessary to address the inaccuracies, baseless claims, and sensationalism contained in the said publication.
“First and foremost, it is important to clarify that the union has only recently lifted the ban on campaigns starting from January 6, 2025, and forms for aspirants to declare their intention to contest have yet to be issued out. Consequently, the publication’s detailed analysis of purported candidates and their alleged strategies is both premature and misleading.”
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MWUN accused the publication of sensationalism, citing its reliance on unverified information from unnamed sources. The union also condemned the narrative of external influence, emphasising that its elections are guided by strict democratic principles.
The statement reaffirmed the union’s commitment to transparency: “MWUN remains a democratically run organisation guided by its constitution. The union’s tradition provides for a free and fair delegates’ conference, devoid of external interference or monetary inducement. To suggest otherwise undermines the credibility of our electoral process and disrespects the integrity of our members.”
The union also rejected any insinuation that past leaders interfere in the electoral process, emphasising that such claims undermine the legacy of discipline and transparency established by former executives.
While addressing the leadership of the current President-General, Comrade Adewale Adeyanju, the statement highlighted his neutrality and commitment to maintaining a level playing field.
“We thank the writer for recognising the good record that Comrade Adewale Adeyanju has maintained through his leadership by holding a neutral stance and ensuring a level playing field for all.”
MWUN called on media outlets to prioritise accuracy and impartiality, warning that unverified reports could disrupt industrial peace in the maritime sector.
“The union’s leadership election is not a political circus but a structured process designed to reflect the will of its members. We urge media outlets to desist from publishing unverified reports that could undermine the unity and stability of MWUN.”
The statement concluded with an assurance of MWUN’s dedication to a seamless leadership transition that prioritises members’ welfare and the advancement of Nigeria’s maritime sector.
