NULGE president says factional poll ‘illegal’

National president of Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Comrade Ibrahim Khaleel, has described as ‘illegal’ elections held recently by a factional group under the guise of the union.

Speaking at a delegate’s congress organised by the Kaduna State chapter of the union, the president decried the attitude of some members who, he said, were bent on causing confusion within the union.

Represented by the National Acting General Secretary, Comrade Chuks Aguonye, the president however lauded the recent judgement by the Abuja High Court which barred state governors from removing elected union chairmen from office, saying the judgment will strengthen democracy and good governance at the grassroots.

He further described the judgement as a big achievement and encouragement to NULGE which has been calling for full autonomy for LGCs in the country.

In an address, state chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Suleiman, said the NLC only recognized Comrade Rayyanu Isyaku Turunku and his team as authentic leaders of NULGE, adding that those claiming to be factional leaders were politicians parading themselves as union leaders.

Also, the state Head of Service, Hajiya Bariatu Mohammed, reiterated the state government’s commitment to the welfare of workers for enhanced productivity.

Earlier, the State NULGE President, Comrade Turunku, stressed that despite some teething problems, the union recorded successes especially in the area of welfare and thanked members for their cooperation.

The newly elected officials include Comrade Rayyanu Isyaku Turunku as State President; Danasabe Abubakar as Treasurer; Comrade Samuel Samanda as public relations officer; Comrade Tiyaye as welfare officer and Comrade Rahila as Women leader.