In a rare and commendable show of unity, kakalistiq.com reports that the Nigerian Union of Teachers (NUT) Epe Branch, Lagos State, witnessed a smooth and peaceful transition of power as new executives were officially inaugurated in a development that earned glowing applause from national union leaders.
Held on Tuesday at the branch secretariat, the inauguration was more than just a formal event; it was a symbol of how far the union has evolved from its turbulent past.
Former National President and respected elder statesman of the union, Pa Michael Olukoya Alogba, didn’t mince words in his praise for the branch’s new approach.
“Congratulations to all of you for allowing peace, tranquility, and conviviality to reign supreme during this election period,” Pa Alogba declared with satisfaction. “A day like this used to be filled with bickering, cantankerous situations and name-calling. It used to be a war zone. But today, what we have witnessed is a scientific, professional, and highly peaceful process that truly reflects the discipline of teachers.”
He further commended the outgoing leadership for not allowing the flame of unity to die out.
“You’ve kept the fire of oneness burning. Let this culture of peaceful transition continue. It’s now a legacy. To the new executives, you came through consensus and concession, so be humble. It’s a call to duty, stay united, and aim to surpass your predecessors,” he advised.
Echoing this sentiment, NUT National Treasurer Mr. Segun Raheem applauded the entire Epe teaching body for embracing the ratification system that replaced divisive electoral tactics of the past.
“We are not where we used to be,” Raheem said. “This evolution in our union structure shows how mature we’ve become. To the new executives, your people trust you, repay them with diligent and selfless service.”
The Education Secretary for Epe, Mr. Shittu Aliu (SAICO), also described the consensus-based ratification as “astonishing,” urging the new leadership to reflect teachers’ interests in every decision.
In an emotional farewell earlier in the event, outgoing chairman Comrade Shakirudeen Olatunji expressed gratitude for the chance to serve, reeling out achievements from his four-year tenure to a loud applause from delegates. He officially dissolved the former executives elected in 2021.
During the delegate conference segment, State Electoral Officer Mr. Azeez Olatunji Fatai, State Moderator Mr. Adunola Fredrick, and Comrade Atiba Augustine from the State NUT Secretariat announced the 13 vacant posts and revealed that all nominations were unopposed. Without any contest, all 13 nominees were declared winners to serve from 2025 to 2029.
The new leadership of the union is headed by Comrade Bello Adeyemi; Deputy Chairman, Comrade Oladipupo Oluwafemi;
1st Vice Chairman, Kassim Yusuf; 2nd Vice Chairman, Mr. Emilere Wasiu; 3rd Vice Chairman, Mr. Awonuga Lateef; Secretary, Mr. Ojikutu Waliu and Assistant Secretary, Mr. Idowu Fatai.
Others are the Publicity Secretary, Mr. Raheem Tunde; Treasurer, Mrs. Bello Yemisi; Social Secretary, Mr. Jimoh Ajarat; Financial Secretary, Mrs. Shodunke Motunrayo
while the Examiner of Account I is Mr. Eleshin Oluwaseyi and
Examiner of Account II is Dada Azeez.
In his first official speech, Comrade Adeyemi Bello promised a leadership that is proactive, inclusive, and dedicated to the growth and welfare of Epe’s teachers.
“I pledge to protect the interests of every teacher in Epe, to amplify your voices and defend your rights at all levels. We are here to serve where it matters and make our union stronger than ever,” he affirmed.
The ceremony marked a milestone for the NUT Epe Branch, not just for its peaceful tone but for the new leadership’s bold promise of unity, continuity, and transformation.
