NURTW and Political Violence: A Case Study of Lagos Island
Abstract
This study employed a quantitative survey research design to investigate the intricate relationship between the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and political violence in Lagos Island. A structured questionnaire was meticulously designed and administered to a sample of 120 respondents representing diverse stakeholder groups, including NURTW members, political stakeholders, law enforcement agencies, and residents of Lagos Island. The collected data were processed and analyzed using SPSS27, a statistical software package, with the application of the t-test to evaluate the research hypotheses. The findings of the study provided significant insights into the multifaceted dynamics of the NURTW’s engagement in political violence. It was revealed that historical factors, including the union’s formation and early interactions with political actors, play a substantial role in shaping its contemporary political role. Moreover, the study unveiled that the NURTW’s participation in political violence is primarily driven by the pursuit of political power and influence, as well as socio-economic factors. Furthermore, the consequences of the NURTW’s involvement in political violence were illuminated, highlighting their adverse impact on governance, security, and democratic processes in Lagos Island. The study’s empirical evidence underscores the need for comprehensive measures to address these challenges and promote democratic stability and citizen security. In conclusion, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of the NURTW’s political role and its implications for Lagos Island. It underscores the significance of historical context, motivation, and consequences in assessing the union’s involvement in political violence. Based on these findings, it is recommended that policymakers, local authorities, and stakeholders consider historical awareness and targeted interventions to manage the NURTW’s political influence effectively. Such measures can enhance governance, security, and democratic principles in Lagos Island and provide valuable lessons for similar contexts worldwide.
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 CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
Background to the Study
The Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has undeniably emerged as a potent and contentious force within the fabric of Nigeria’s transport system (Adams, 2021). Established in 1978, the organization, which ostensibly concerns itself with the welfare of road transport workers, has steadily transformed into a formidable socio-political entity that wields considerable influence across the nation (Adebanjo, 2019). This transformation, however, has been marred by its association with political violence, particularly in urban hubs like Lagos Island.
The NURTW’s inception was ostensibly rooted in the noble objective of championing the rights and welfare of road transport workers in Nigeria (Adebayo, 2021). At the time, the organization played a crucial role in addressing the concerns and grievances of this often marginalized and vulnerable group. However, over the years, the NURTW’s activities expanded beyond the scope of its original mission. Today, it stands as a testament to the complex interplay between trade unions, politics, and power dynamics in the Nigerian context.
One cannot overstate the prominence of the NURTW in Nigerian politics (Adejumobi, 2020). The organization has cultivated an extensive and devoted membership base, enriched by substantial financial resources, and has strategically established its presence in major urban centres, effectively becoming a sought-after partner for politicians aiming to secure support during elections and consolidate control over pivotal areas (Adekanye, 2021).
The NURTW’s substantial membership base is a critical component of its political influence (Adejumobi, 2020). Drawing its strength from the thousands of transport workers affiliated with the union, the NURTW commands a significant grassroots presence. These members, comprising drivers, conductors, and allied personnel, form a dedicated and organized support network that political aspirants covet. The union’s ability to mobilize this base, whether through rallies, campaigns, or voter mobilization efforts, grants it considerable leverage within the political landscape (Adejumobi, 2020).
Furthermore, the financial resources at the disposal of the NURTW are a testament to its political clout (Adeyemo, 2017). These resources stem from various revenue streams, including levies imposed on transport workers, fees collected from motor parks, and a share of the proceeds from various transportation-related businesses. Consequently, the NURTW has the financial means to fund political campaigns, support candidates, and, in some instances, influence electoral outcomes through financial inducements (Adejumobi, 2020).
The NURTW’s established presence in major cities, particularly Lagos Island, plays a pivotal role in its political ascendance (Adejumobi, 2020). The organization has effectively ingrained itself within the urban fabric, controlling access to transportation hubs, motor parks, and routes. This territorial dominance gives the NURTW the ability to regulate transportation activities and exert influence over commuters and businesses operating within its sphere of control (Adejumobi, 2020).
However, the symbiotic relationship between the NURTW and politicians comes at a significant cost (Adigbuo, 2020). The dark underbelly of this alliance is the frequent allegations of political violence and intimidation associated with the organization’s activities (African Leadership forum, 2018). Reports of clashes between rival NURTW factions, attacks on opposition members, and intimidation of voters during elections have become disturbingly common occurrences (Agagu, 2021).
The involvement of the NURTW in political violence is a multifaceted issue that demands careful examination (Agagu, 2021). Historically, the organization’s evolution into a political player can be traced back to its formative years (Agbaje et al., 2018). The NURTW’s initial engagement with political actors was driven by the pursuit of improved working conditions and the protection of its members’ interests. Over time, however, the union’s interests expanded beyond these legitimate concerns, and it became entangled in the broader political landscape (Agbaje et al., 2018).
One key factor motivating the NURTW’s participation in political violence is the pursuit of financial gains (Agagu, 2021). The vast financial resources at its disposal provide an incentive for the union to align itself with politicians who can facilitate the accumulation of wealth. This financial motivation often fuels aggressive and coercive tactics aimed at ensuring political candidates friendly to the NURTW’s interests emerge victorious (Agagu, 2021).
Political patronage is another influential factor in the NURTW’s involvement in political violence (Agbaje, 2020). As politicians seek to secure their positions of power, they often turn to organizations like the NURTW to mobilize votes, disrupt opponents’ activities, and maintain order during elections (Agbese, 2020). In return, the NURTW expects rewards in the form of lucrative appointments, government contracts, and protection from law enforcement agencies (Agbese, 2020).
The consequences of the NURTW’s engagement in political violence extend beyond the immediate impact on election outcomes (Agbese, 2020). The presence of violence and intimidation in the political process erodes the democratic principles that underpin Nigeria’s governance system (Akamere, 2021). It creates an atmosphere of fear and insecurity among citizens, inhibiting their ability to freely express their political preferences and participate in the democratic process (Akamere, 2021).
Moreover, the NURTW’s involvement in political violence raises questions about the rule of law and the effectiveness of law enforcement agencies in curbing such activities (Akpor, 2020). The perception that powerful organizations like the NURTW can act with impunity undermines the credibility of Nigeria’s justice system and erodes trust in democratic institutions (Akpor, 2020).
Statement of Problem
The statement of the problem in the context of the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and its involvement in political violence is a matter of grave concern. Despite its initial mission of advocating for the welfare of transport workers, the NURTW’s entanglement in politics has raised significant issues. This is particularly evident in urban centres like Lagos Island, where allegations of political violence linked to the NURTW have become disturbingly common (Akamere, 2021).
One of the core problems is the erosion of democratic principles (Akamere, 2021). The NURTW’s involvement in political violence threatens the integrity of elections and compromises the free expression of citizens’ political preferences. This casts a shadow over the legitimacy of the democratic process in Nigeria.
Furthermore, the escalation of political violence associated with the NURTW poses a substantial threat to public safety and security (Agagu, 2021). Clashes between rival NURTW factions and attacks on opposition members not only disrupt the electoral process but also jeopardize the well-being of citizens. This raises questions about the ability of law enforcement agencies to maintain law and order (Akpor, 2020).
In essence, the statement of the problem revolves around the NURTW’s dual role as a socio-political entity and its association with political violence. It underscores the need to address these issues to safeguard democratic principles, ensure public safety, and maintain the credibility of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Objectives of the Study
This research aims to achieve three specific objectives:
- To investigate the historical evolution of the NURTW’s involvement in politics on Lagos Island.
- To analyze the factors driving the NURTW’s participation in political violence in the region.
- To assess the consequences of NURTW’s political violence on governance, security, and democracy in Lagos Island.
Research Questions
To guide this study, the following research questions have been formulated:
- What is the historical context of the NURTW’s engagement in politics on Lagos Island?
- What are the key factors motivating the NURTW’s participation in political violence?
- How does the NURTW’s involvement in political violence affect governance, security, and democracy in Lagos Island?
Research Hypotheses
In line with the research questions, the following hypotheses were tested:
Null Hypotheses(H0):
- The NURTW’s involvement in politics on Lagos Island is not rooted in historical factors, including its formation and early interactions with political actors.
- The primary drivers of the NURTW’s participation in political violence do not include the pursuit of financial gains, political patronage, and the desire for power and influence.
- The NURTW’s engagement in political violence does not have adverse consequences for governance, security, and democratic processes in Lagos Island.
Alternative Hypotheses(H1):
- The NURTW’s involvement in politics on Lagos Island is rooted in historical factors, including its formation and early interactions with political actors.
- The primary drivers of the NURTW’s participation in political violence include the pursuit of financial gains, political patronage, and the desire for power and influence.
- The NURTW’s engagement in political violence has adverse consequences for governance, security, and democratic processes in Lagos Island.
Significance of the Study
This study holds several significant implications for academia, policy, and society. Firstly, it contributes to the existing body of knowledge on the intersection of transport unions and politics in Nigeria, shedding light on the NURTW’s evolution into a political force. Secondly, it provides insights into the underlying causes of political violence in Lagos Island, thereby aiding conflict prevention efforts. Moreover, the findings of this research can inform policymakers and law enforcement agencies in developing strategies to curb political violence associated with the NURTW. Finally, by understanding the broader consequences of this phenomenon, the study can contribute to discussions on urban governance, security, and the health of democratic institutions in Nigeria.
Scope of the Study
This study primarily focuses on the activities of the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) within the geographical boundaries of Lagos Island, Lagos State, Nigeria. Lagos Island was chosen as the case study area due to its historical significance, its status as a major urban centre, and the prevalence of NURTW-related political violence in the region. The study’s temporal scope encompasses the period from the formation of the NURTW in 1978 to the present day.
Operational Definition of Terms
To ensure clarity and precision, the following key terms are operationally defined within the context of this study:
NURTW (Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers): Refers to the Nigerian Union of Road Transport Workers, an organization representing the interests of road transport workers in Nigeria.
Political Violence: Any act of violence or intimidation perpetrated by members or associates of the NURTW in the pursuit of political objectives, including electoral activities and the promotion of political interests.
Lagos Island: Geographical area within Lagos State, Nigeria, characterized by its historical significance and status as a densely populated urban centre.
Urban Governance: The management and administration of urban areas, including policies, practices, and institutions responsible for decision-making, service delivery, and urban development in Lagos Island.
Security: The state of safety and protection from harm or danger, encompassing both physical safety and the absence of fear or intimidation due to political violence.
Democracy: A system of government in which power is vested in the people, either directly or through elected representatives, and characterized by free and fair elections, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
Conflict Prevention: Efforts and strategies aimed at addressing the root causes of conflicts and violence to prevent their escalation and recurrence.
Political Patronage: The practice of political leaders providing support, resources, or benefits to individuals or groups, such as the NURTW, in exchange for loyalty, support, or political favors.
References
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- Tashakkori, A., & Teddlie, C. (2017). Sage Handbook of Mixed Methods in Social & Behavioral Research. Sage Publications.
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