Chukwuma Azode Emerges Abia State NURTW Chairman.
“No More Lawlessness in Abia Transport Sector,” Abia Transport Boss Declares as NURTW Returns to Abia, Chukwuma Azode Emerges as State Chairman.
After years of dormancy and disbandment, the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has made a powerful return to Abia State, with Comrade Chukwuma Azode, popularly known as Comrade China, officially sworn in as the State Chairman.
The inauguration ceremony, which held at the NURTW Council Headquarters Ohiya park Umuahia, on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, drew a large crowd of transport stakeholders, union leaders, government representatives, and jubilant workers who hailed the return of structure and unity to the once-fractured sector.
In a strong message to all members of the transport union and the general public, the Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Chimezie Ukaegbu, declared,
“There will be no more lawlessness in the Abia transport sector. This new administration must operate with discipline, transparency, and total alignment with the law.”
He praised the efforts of Governor Dr. Alex Otti OFR, who gave the green light for the reinstatement of the union after carefully assessing the need for organization and accountability among transport workers.
“The Governor has no problem with NURTW,” the Commissioner added, “but he will not allow anyone, no matter their title, to cause confusion or operate outside the law.”
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy National President of NURTW, Alhaji Aliyu Issa Ore, who represented the National President, Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya (MC Oluomo), applauded the peaceful process that led to the union’s return.
“We are proud of Abia. This is how a union should be revived, through peace, unity, and cooperation with government. We thank Governor Otti for his leadership.”
He urged the newly sworn-in executives to uphold integrity, serve the people with humility, and never forget the true purpose of the union, which is the welfare and development of transport workers.
Hon. Obioma Nwogbe, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport, described the transport workers as “a major part of Abia’s economy,” stating, “This administration is not against any union, but we will not tolerate sabotage or selfish interests. Work with sincerity, and the government will work with you.”
One of the key stakeholders in the Abia transport industry, Don Dominic Sunday, noted that peace, not force, was what made the return possible. “What you see here today is the result of sincere dialogue. No violence, no threats, just unity. And that’s how we’ll move forward,” he said.
Chief Ogaraku, Chairman of the Aba Township Bus Branch, praised the emergence of Comrade China as Chairman. “This is the best leadership we’ve seen in years. We are solidly behind him,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, Comrade China thanked God, the Governor, and all members of the union for the opportunity to serve. “Today marks a new beginning for NURTW in Abia. I will lead with fairness, transparency, and humility. I also call on every transporter to support the government and obey all rules and regulations.”
He pledged to uphold peace, avoid illegal activities, and ensure all members benefit from training, support, and a better organized system.
The return of the NURTW is widely seen as a major win for transport workers in Abia State, many of whom have long operated in a state of uncertainty. With leadership now restored and a commitment to peace and collaboration, the future looks more stable for one of the state’s most important sectors.
