MWUN Loses Veteran Dockworker, Comrade Johnbull Ikharia to Cold Hands of Death
The Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has again been thrown into mourning following the death of Comrade Johnbull Ikharia, a veteran unionist and former Vice President of the Dockworkers Branch of the Union.
This was announced in a statement signed by Comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, Head of Media, MWUN.
Ikharia, popularly known as “JB” by colleagues, subordinates, superiors and admirers, reportedly died after a brief illness while receiving treatment at a hospital in Lagos. His remains have since been deposited in a mortuary.
The late unionist was described by the MWUN as a committed and courageous labour activist who dedicated several years of his life to the growth, unity and development of the Union.
Ikharia began his trade union career at the grassroots, rising through various positions, including Unit Chairman, District Organising Secretary and District Chairman. His contributions and leadership experience later earned him election as Vice President of the Dockworkers Branch, a position he held for two consecutive four-year terms under the leadership of Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju.
He subsequently served at the Union’s headquarters as Special Adviser to the President-General, which was his last appointment before his death.
The Union described the late Ikharia as a “never-give-up” fighter who remained committed to the struggle for a stronger and more united MWUN. According to the Union, his efforts contributed to the peace, stability and improved relations currently being experienced within the organisation.
A thoroughbred dockworker and dedicated unionist, Ikharia was also remembered for his rugged commitment to his responsibilities and his determination to pursue issues affecting the welfare and progress of maritime workers.
Reacting to his death, the President-General of MWUN, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, expressed sadness over the loss, describing the deceased as a disciplined and dependable unionist who was always close to him.
Bunu said Ikharia was respectful, obedient, calculative and disciplined, adding that his sense of humour and soft-spoken nature were among the qualities that endeared him to him.
According to the President-General, the late Ikharia was a “jolly good fellow” who was devoid of tribalism and represented a rare breed of unionist.
Bunu also reflected on the uncertainty of life, noting that only God determines a person’s last day on earth and urging people to make positive contributions during their lifetime.
The death has also elicited grief among executives and members of the Union, who reportedly wished that Ikharia had survived the illness.
The deceased hailed from Auchi in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, where he had his early elementary and secondary education before relocating to Lagos in pursuit of his career in trade unionism.
Married and survived by children, Ikharia was remembered by the MWUN as an icon of the struggle for unity and progress within the Union, with his contributions expected to remain part of the organisation’s history.
