Lagos Labour Union Endorse Sanwo-Olu, Tinubu, Snub Peter Obi
The Organised Labour union in Lagos State has thrown their weight behind the candidature of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential flagbearer, Bola Tinubu.
The union gave its support during a mega rally in Ikeja on Thursday, citing the Lagos governor's labour-friendliness and accomplishments as reasons for the move.
The unions — Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) — own the Labour Party which has Peter Obi, a former governor of Anambra, as its presidential candidate.
However, speaking at the rally, Funmilayo Sessi, chair of the NLC in Lagos, said they want Sanwo-Olu to continue in office because of his “good works”.
“We made the decision before today but we only came out to display our solidarity with him publicly. What we have done right in our house, we are showing to the world,” Sese said.
“This is the first time the organised labour in Lagos is taking an open position to endorse the candidate of a political party. We have come out with our full chests because this government has done good things for us.
“We are also endorsing Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the position of president of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We will vote for him.”
On his part, Segun Balogun, speaking on behalf of the Public Servants Joint Negotiating Council, said Sanwo-Olu has been a friend to workers in the state.
“I can say it with all sense of responsibility, you have kept your promise. You promised workers would not be sacked during COVID and you kept to that promise,” Balogun said.
“You have put your name in gold for being the first governor to pay above the minimum wage. Each time you engage labour, you always keep the interest of labour on the front burner.
“We have made up our minds to follow you.”
Gbenga Ekundayo, TUC chairman in the state, said the governor has “listening ears and a large heart to accommodate us”.
“There is no need to beat about the bush. You have heard it well. Each time we meet Mr Governor, he responds to us. Democracy is about inclusion,” he said.