Kunle Poly Appointed Vice Chairman of NURTW Lagos State Chapter

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By Sesan Rufus Awobiye

The Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has announced the appointment of Alhaji Abdulazeez Adekunle Lawal, popularly known as “Kunle Poly” as its new Vice Chairman, who’s originally from the Salè-Kó community in Lagos State and belonging to the Yoruba tribe, Kunle Poly completed his primary and secondary education in Ilupeju, Lagos. Before advancing to higher education. He earned a National Diploma from Kwara State Polytechnic in Ilorin, where he studied Business Studies between 1995 and 1996.

This educational background played a role in shaping his career, as it provided him with the skills to manage his businesses and eventually contribute to his leadership roles in the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Lagos State chapter.

Kunle Poly is a respected figure in the Lagos State NURTW chapter, having been an active member for over 16 years. He joined the NURTW under Alhaji Shina Ajayi’s guidance and initially served as the assistant organizing secretary of the Ehin Eyo Unit. Transitioning to a full-time role in transportation, he started as a bus driver, buying buses for other drivers, which in turn generated income.

He hails from Lagos State and has deep roots in the transport business, particularly on Lagos Island. Over the years, he became one of the influential leaders of the NURTW, known for his ability to navigate complex union dynamics and maintain order in one of Nigeria’s busiest transport hubs. His rise to Vice Chairman comes during a time when the NURTW is working to restore stability and credibility following periods of internal strife. This appointment comes at a critical juncture for the union, which has faced internal strife and public scrutiny in recent years.

Kunle Poly, a well-known figure in Lagos Island’s transport sector, is expected to bring his years of experience and influence to bear in restoring unity and stability within the union.

Kunle Poly is married to Olayinka Lawal, a Nollywood actress. The couple is blessed with four children, two of whom currently live abroad. Olayinka and Kunle tied the knot in March 2019 in a court wedding held in Lagos.

Olayinka has shared in interviews that her decision to marry Kunle was based on his character and personality rather than external factors, emphasizing his respectfulness and generosity.

Kunle Poly balances his family life with his significant role in the Lagos State chapter of the NURTW, where he recently became Vice Chairman. He is also actively involved in charity work, often giving back to the community through his Kunle Poly Foundation.

A Leader with Roots in Lagos

Kunle Poly has spent much of his career navigating the complexities of the Lagos transport system, particularly in the busy Lagos Island area. He previously served as the Chairman of Branch B, Lagos Island, a position that placed him at the helm of managing one of the most active and challenging regions in the state. Under his leadership, the branch oversaw transport operations in Idumota and surrounding areas, which are notorious for congestion and occasional disputes.

Known for his charismatic leadership style and street-level influence, Kunle Poly has been a pivotal figure in the local transport network, fostering dialogue between union members, local authorities, and market stakeholders.

Achievements in the NURTW

Kunle Poly’s appointment as Vice Chairman reflects recognition of his contributions to the union over the years. Some of his notable achievements include:

1. Conflict Resolution

As the Lagos Island Branch B Chairman, he was instrumental in mediating disputes among drivers and union members, ensuring that operations continued despite challenges.

2. Advocacy for Members

Kunle Poly has been a vocal advocate for the welfare of transport workers, championing better working conditions and pushing for policies that benefit the union’s members.

3. Community Engagement

Beyond union politics, Kunle Poly has been involved in initiatives aimed at uplifting the Lagos Island community. His efforts include supporting local welfare projects and organizing forums to address transport-related issues.

Challenges and Controversies

Despite his achievements, Kunle Poly’s career has been marked by controversy. In January 2022, he was implicated in a violent clash at Idumota Market that resulted in the loss of lives. Accusations of involvement in factional violence and other legal battles have often cast a shadow over his career. However, his ability to navigate these challenges and maintain his standing within the NURTW underscores his resilience and influence.

Responsibilities as Vice Chairman

As Vice Chairman, Kunle Poly will take on broader responsibilities within the NURTW. His role will include:

– Coordinating transport operations across Lagos State.

– Strengthening collaboration between the union and government agencies.

– Mediating disputes within the union and promoting unity among members.

– Addressing the concerns of commuters and drivers in the state’s transport system.

A Strategic Appointment

Kunle Poly’s appointment signals a strategic move by the NURTW leadership to stabilize the union and address its internal challenges. His extensive experience in grassroots mobilization and conflict resolution positions him as a key player in the union’s efforts to rebuild its public image and enhance service delivery.

Outlook

Kunle Poly’s tenure as Vice Chairman will likely be closely watched by both supporters and critics. His ability to balance the demands of his new role, address lingering controversies, and foster a more harmonious transport system will be crucial to his legacy.

For now, the appointment of Kunle Poly is being celebrated within the union as a step towards strengthening the leadership structure of the Lagos State chapter, with hopes that his leadership will usher in a new era of stability and progress.