Comrade Adeyanju Hails Peaceful Transition, Commends Bunu’s Leadership for the election of shipping branch

The Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN) has successfully conducted its Shipping Branch elections, culminating in the emergence of Comrade Femi Abass as the new Branch President. The election, held Monday at the Union’s National Secretariat in Apapa, Lagos, marked a smooth leadership transition from Comrade Ekpeyon Ekpeyon, who completed his constitutionally allowed two terms—spanning eight years.

Until his election, Comrade Abass served as the Vice President of the Shipping Branch. His rise to the top position comes at a time when some quarters had anticipated discord surrounding the electoral process. However, under the firm and tactful leadership of the Union’s President-General, Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, the election was conducted peacefully, dispelling all fears of crisis.

Comrade Bunu, a seasoned maritime professional and sailor from Delta State, was widely praised for steering the Union through a sensitive period with maturity and strategic foresight. Observers have noted his role in ensuring that the democratic process was upheld without rancor, setting a new tone of stability and unity for the Shipping Branch.

In a show of solidarity and statesmanship, Comrade (Prince) Dr. Adewale Adeyanju, the immediate past President-General of the MWUN and current Deputy President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), expressed admiration for the way the elections were handled. Adeyanju, who also serves as Vice Chairman, Global, International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF), said he had full confidence in Comrade Bunu’s leadership and was not surprised by the peaceful outcome.

“I am proud of Comrade Bunu’s leadership and how he has carried the Union forward,” Adeyanju stated. “He has proven that he was the right person to take over when I stepped down, and his actions have reaffirmed my confidence in him.”

Adeyanju further extended his appreciation to stakeholders across the maritime industry for their continued support of the Union’s new leadership. He also urged Union members to show patience and understanding, assuring them that Comrade Bunu’s progressive agenda would soon yield visible results.

Turning his attention to the newly elected Shipping Branch executives, Adeyanju offered words of advice and encouragement. He emphasized the importance of unity, tolerance, and teamwork, stressing that trust and loyalty were essential for progress.

“I urge the new Shipping Branch leadership to work as one. Let there be peace and shared purpose. Only through unity can we move the branch—and the Union—forward,” Adeyanju said.

He concluded by congratulating Comrade Abass and his team, expressing his belief that they would deliver on their mandate. Describing the new Branch President as a man of integrity, discipline, and commitment to the cause of labour, Adeyanju noted that Abass’s track record speaks volumes about the promise he brings to the office.

According to a press statement by comrade John Kennedy Ikemefuna, Head of Media of the Union,the election outcome has been widely welcomed across the Union, with members expressing optimism that the new administration will consolidate on past gains and usher in a new era of growth and inclusiveness for the Shipping Branch.