A potential crisis is unfolding within the Edo State Roads Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) following a recent clarification regarding the association’s leadership.
Conflict Over Leadership Recognition
Comrade Richard Aimienoho, the Deputy National President of Planning and Logistics for RTEAN, stated on behalf of the national president, Alhaji Musa Muhammed, that Mr. Charles Momoh is the officially recognized chairman of the association. Aimienoho confirmed that Momoh would soon resume office to complete the tenure of his predecessor, Sunday Erhahon.
However, tensions escalated as Aimienoho claimed that Osakpanmwan Eriyo, a former state chairman and national president who is rumored to be vying for leadership in the state, has been expelled from the association.
Counterclaims from the National Secretary
In response, the National Secretary, Hon Ya’u Abubakar Kabiru, refuted Aimienoho’s claims, asserting that both Aimienoho and Momoh are not recognized members of the association and should not be considered credible. Kabiru emphasized that Eriyo has not been expelled and that the dispute regarding his membership is currently under judicial review at the Court of Appeal.
“Who doesn’t know Comrade Osakpamwan Eriyo in Edo state as a RTEAN leader? Or it’s Richard Aimienoho and Momoh who are Godwin Obaseki boys that will be telling us the original members of RTEAN or what to do in the state?” Kabiru stated, reinforcing Eriyo’s position as the legitimate leader.
He further criticized the involvement of Governor Godwin Obaseki, suggesting that the governor is overstepping his authority by attempting to impose Monday Orhue, a loyalist, as RTEAN’s leader in Edo State.
Call for Public Support
Kabiru urged the public and RTEAN members to reject Aimienoho’s assertions and to recognize Eriyo as the legitimate leader of the association. He called for unity among members and cautioned against the influence of external political figures on union matters, asserting that such interferences should not be tolerated.
The ongoing dispute raises concerns about the stability and governance of RTEAN in Edo State, as both factions assert their legitimacy in leading the association amid legal challenges.