By Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi
On behalf of the Edo State Government, the Head of Service (HOS), Dr. Anthony Osas Okungbowa has reiterated the stance of neutrality pending the Court ruling on the leadership dispute of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN).
The HOS made the declaration when he played host to the Edo State Chapter of the Association, led by its Caretaker Committee Chairman, Comrade Israel Uwoghiren, which paid a courtesy visit on his office at the Government House in Benin City.
While addressing the delegation, the HOS expressed concerns over the ongoing factional crises within the Association at the National level. He emphasized the importance of internal cohesion within labour unions, particularly those tasked with protecting the rights of Civil servants. He reiterated that government’s role in such matters is to maintain neutrality and uphold due process, urging them to set aside internal divisions and to work collectively towards the advancement of workers’ welfare in the State and beyond.
“We have no intention of interfering in union affairs; however, until the legal issues surrounding the leadership dispute are resolved, we will not release union deductions to any faction. This is imperative so we do not appear to have taken sides. Unionism is not a do-or-die affair. Members reserve the right to belong to any group of their choice. But until the Court makes a clear pronouncement and the documentation is regularized, the funds will remain untouched. Once clarity is achieved, we will ensure the rightful party receives what is due to them,” he stated.
Dr. Okungbowa appealed to the leadership of ASCSN to prioritize peace and reconciliation, saying, “Unity remains the bedrock of effective advocacy for workers. It is always better to bring conflicting parties together and seek resolution, no matter how difficult the situation may appear. In unity, there is strength; in division, we are weakened. Seek peace so that you can perform the assigned functions together as one unit.”
Comrade Uwoghiren stated that the visit was necessary to update the HOS on the State Chapter’s position in the ongoing National leadership dispute, which has seen two factions operating parallel structures. He clarified that the Edo State Chapter supports the leadership of Comrade Innocent Bola Audu, whom the National Industrial Court has affirmed as the legitimate National President of the ASCSN. He described the meeting as fruitful and appreciated the HOS for his open engagement and principled stance.
“We believe the Court’s pronouncement settles the matter. Unfortunately, some individuals continue to parade themselves as legitimate leaders without lawful authority. We have returned to the Court to ensure the status quo is maintained, and we strongly oppose any attempt to release union deductions to the illegal faction. We thank the HOS for listening to our side of the story. We believe his neutral position and insistence on legal compliance will ensure that workers’ funds are protected and only released to duly recognized leadership,” Comrade Uwoghiren concluded.
