NAMTOP faction dissociates from planned nationwide protest over potential violence

A faction of the National Association of Maritime Transport Operators (NAMTOP) led by Lukman Shittu, has distanced itself from the planned national protest against bad governance scheduled for August 1-10, 2024.

In a public announcement, Shittu’s faction emphasised its non-participation, citing concerns over the potential for peaceful protests to escalate into violence, while referencing the 2020 End SARS protests as a precedent, warning of the economic repercussions that can arise from such events.

“We wish to categorically inform the public that our faction of NAMTOP is not participating in any protest. No peaceful protest has ever ended in peace. The economy of Lagos State and Nigeria is yet to recover from the devastating outcome of the End SARS protest that started as a peaceful demonstration,” the state reads.

The faction highlighted its commitment to resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy, rather than through public demonstrations.

The faction expressed its committed to proferring solutions to the challenges of maritime trucking operations through diplomatic manner of approach with the authorities.

They urged the federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, to hold the leader of the other faction accountable for any potential disruption or damage to public life, properties and ports infrastructure in the maritime industry.

Addressing the current leadership vacuum within NAMTOP, Shittu’s faction clarified that the association is embroiled in a leadership dispute pending before the Lagos State High Court (suit number ID/7478GCM/2024).

Shittu said until a judgment is rendered, no faction has the authority to claim leadership of the association.

“We urge our faction members in the maritime trucking community to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and to pursue their business activities without fear. Report any suspicious and mischievous moves to the nearest police authority,” the statement continued.

Shittu called for peace and stability, underlining the faction’s dedication to the rule of law and the economic wellbeing of Lagos State and Nigeria.