Adams Oshiomhole warns NLC against picking sides

Former Edo State governor, now currently representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole has urged the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to prioritize advocating for workers’ rights rather than engaging in what he perceives as partisan political activities.

Expressing his viewpoint after a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senator Oshiomhole emphasized the importance of the current strike being driven by genuine worker-centric motives rather than political considerations.

The former NLC president, drawing from his background as a worker and union leader, reaffirmed his commitment to standing by the side of Labour. However, he cautioned against the entanglement of the labor movement in partisan politics.

During his tenure leading the NLC, Oshiomhole highlighted his deliberate choice to maintain a neutral stance towards politicians, refusing to align himself with any political figure or party in settling political scores.

He stressed the inherent connection between politics and the welfare of the people, asserting that despite individual preferences for different candidates, Labour’s involvement should steer clear of overtly supporting specific political entities or agendas.

Oshiomhole reminisced about his principled stance during his NLC presidency in Edo State, emphasizing his refusal to forge alliances or cozy relationships with politicians seeking to leverage his influence.

“I am not anybody’s boy,” Oshiomhole stated, emphasizing his commitment to independent decision-making and assuming responsibility for those decisions.

He further underscored his dedication to representing the interests of the ordinary citizens, acknowledging their role as voters and underscoring the challenge within the system that often impedes their rise in political spheres.

Reflecting on his convictions, Oshiomhole emphasized the need to discern what causes are worth championing and defending, stressing the significance of upholding values that resonate with the ordinary populace.