Earlier today at the MOUN Secretariat in Ilorin, members of the Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN) from various local government areas of Kwara State held a decamping ceremony, officially switching their allegiance from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Notably, these decampees are the initiators of the old “Osu wa” mantra.
A spokesperson for the decampees stated, “Under previous administrations, once in office, leaders treated us as mere ‘riffraff’ and neglected our needs. However, with the transformative initiatives introduced by Governor AbdulRazaq, bolstered by the dynamic leadership of Hon. AbdulAzeez Yakub Tinuola, we are finally receiving the support we deserve. Today, I announce that all former PDP members of MOAN have now joined APC.”
In a comprehensive address, former Kwara State PDP Chairman for Motorcycle Operators, Mr. Abdulwahab Hussein, credited the state government for its far-reaching development efforts. He highlighted the significant Urban Renewal Project and the state’s robust infrastructural developments, including from smooth main roads to the street’s new interlocking systems, as key factors in the revitalization of the transport sector. Mr. Hussein also lauded the series of empowerment programs from the Kwara State Social Investment Program, KWASSIP, involving distributing cash incentives ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦50,000 at regular intervals, that have substantially improved the welfare and morale of motorcycle operators.
Speaking at the event, AbdulRahman Olayinka Onikijipa, Chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), praised Governor AbdulRazaq for prioritizing transport infrastructure and empowerment programs. He emphasized that the administration’s initiatives have directly benefited transport workers, ensuring their inclusion in governance and decision-making. He further encouraged the governor to expand the participation of transport leaders like Tinuola in the ruling system, recognizing their role in strengthening grassroots mobilization.
AbdulRazaq Ariwoola, Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), echoed similar sentiments, commending the governor for his unprecedented support for transport operators. He described the decamping as a “bold and strategic move” that reflects the confidence MOUN members have in the APC-led administration. He also applauded the motorcycle operators for taking a giant step in aligning with the progressive vision of the state government.
Among the distinguished figures present was House Leader, Kwara State House of Assembly, Hon. Oba Abdulkadri Magaji. i Senior Special Assistant on Political Affairs Hon. Sai Kayi, Special Assistant on Transport, AbdulRahman Olayinka Onikijipa (Chairman, RTEAN), AbdulRazaq Ariwoola (Chairman, NURTW), Hon. AbdulAzeez Tinuola (Chairman of MOAN and Irepodun Local Government), the Ag General manager, KWASSIP, and Hon. Abdulwasiu Olayinka Tejidini
New Mantra: “Kwara Igba Otun dè”