Era of Thuggery, Hooliganism at Nigerian Ports is Gone, Adeyanju Tells Port Police Commissioner

—Advocates better equipment and resources for effective policing

By DAPO OLAWUNI

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) led by its President-General, Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju, has declared that the era of thuggery and hooliganism at Nigerian ports is over, emphasizing that the Union has transitioned into a more digitalized and professional body.

This statement was made during the recent visit of the Commissioner of Police, Port Police Command, CP Ibrahim Balarabe Maikaba, and his team to the Union’s secretariat. The visit, described as monumental by both parties, aimed to strengthen ties and foster synergy between the Police and the Union.

CP Ibrahim, who was accompanied by senior officers including Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations) Ibrahim Abdu, CSP Ojo Ahmed of the CP Monitoring Team, and CSP Ibimode Adeleye of Kirikiri Lighter Terminal, commended the leadership of the Union. He described the reception as unprecedented and acknowledged the Union’s significant role as a stakeholder in the maritime industry.

The Police Commissioner emphasized the importance of collaboration between the Port Police Command and the Union, stating that effective policing cannot be achieved in isolation. He urged Comrade Adeyanju to see the Police not just as partners but as brothers, assuring the Union of his openness and commitment to maintaining a safe and conducive port environment.

In his response, Comrade Adeyanju lauded CP Ibrahim’s impressive career, which includes peacekeeping missions in Sudan and Kosovo, for which he received United Nations commendation awards.

He described the Police Commissioner as a seasoned and versatile officer whose leadership style aligns with the Union’s vision for a crime-free and efficient port system.

Highlighting the Union’s evolution, Adeyanju noted that the MWUN has moved past the days of port disruptions caused by thuggery and hooliganism.

He stressed that the Union now operates with a professional workforce trained to manage activities across jetties, oil and gas platforms, and seaports.

“The era of hooliganism is gone,” Adeyanju declared. “Our Union is digitalized, and our workers are well-trained. We are committed to ensuring peace and efficiency at the ports.”

He also explained the Union’s approach to industrial disputes, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in resolving issues. While the Union occasionally issues strike threats, Adeyanju assured the Police Commissioner that such measures are only a last resort after all other avenues have been exhausted.

The Union pledged to support the Port Police Command by advocating for better equipment and resources for effective policing. Adeyanju promised to engage the Director-General of NIMASA, Dr. Dayo Mobereola, and the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), to address the logistical needs of the Command.

The visit marked a historic moment for the Maritime Workers Union, as it was the first time the Port Police Command officially engaged with the Union in such a manner. Both parties expressed optimism about the new relationship, with Adeyanju assuring that the partnership would enhance the safety and efficiency of port operations.

The Union concluded by reiterating its commitment to maintaining a peaceful and productive maritime environment, declaring that with CP Ibrahim’s leadership, the ports are poised for greater success.