The National Leadership of the Roads Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) has reiterated that there is no leadership vacuum in Edo State. Mr. Charles Momoh is the legally recognized chairman, set to resume office and complete the tenure of his predecessor, Sunday Erhahon, who resigned due to health reasons. At the time of Erhahon’s resignation, Momoh held the position of Deputy State Chairman (Administration).
Clarification on Leadership Changes
The association addressed concerns regarding Osakpanmwan Eriyo, who has been rumored to be positioning himself to reclaim leadership in Edo State. The association confirmed that Eriyo is no longer a member, having allegedly been expelled.
In a statement made in Benin City on Sunday, Comrade Richard Aimienoho, the Deputy National President for Planning and Logistics, spoke on behalf of the National President of RTEAN, Alhaji Musa Muhammed. He clarified that the current occupant of the state chairmanship, Monday Orhue, was imposed by the outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration. Orhue has agreed to vacate his position on November 12, allowing Momoh to continue the tenure interrupted by Erhahon’s resignation. Following this, Momoh can contest to begin his own tenure.
Legal Rulings
Aimienoho elaborated on the removal of Eriyo, stating, “Eriyo, who forcefully installed himself as the national president, was removed by the Industrial Court because his assumption of office did not adhere to our association’s constitution. The court reinstated Alhaji Musa Muhammed.”
He emphasized that RTEAN is governed by mature individuals who adhere strictly to the constitution. With Eriyo’s defeat in court, he was expelled from the association. Aimienoho dismissed recent reports of unrest and violence, asserting, “What we heard recently about some people attacking individuals in public places, claiming a new government is coming, is incorrect and not sanctioned by us.”
Court Ruling on Eriyo’s Tenure
In a significant ruling by Justice O. Y. Anuwe in the suit marked NICN/Abj/278/2019, the court declared Eriyo’s ascension to the office of National President as illegal. The ruling stated, “It is declared that ascension by the 1st Defendant to the office of the National President of the 1st Claimant was in clear violation of Article 6A2(n) of the 1st Claimant’s amended constitution and is illegal, null, and void.”
