OPINION:A Life of Service to Humanity: The Tale of Comrade Ayeoribe, Former NLC Chairman, Kwara State

 OPINION:A Life of Service to Humanity: The Tale of Comrade Ayeoribe, Former NLC Chairman, Kwara State

By Idris Alooma 

In the pantheon of Nigeria's labour movement, few names shine as brightly as Comrade Emmanuel Akin Ayeoribe. A stalwart of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kwara state chapter, Ayeoribe's journey is a testament to the power of conviction and the indomitable human spirit.

"I joined the labour union when I saw the pain and agony workers in Nigeria were passing through," Ayeoribe recalls, his voice tinged with a mix of nostalgia and defiance. For him, it was a calling – a duty to liberate workers from the shackles of exploitation.

But the path was not easy. "It was a painful decision for me to make because some of my family weren't happy about it," he says, hinting at the personal sacrifices he made for the cause. Yet, Ayeoribe did not waver, driven by a sense of purpose that transcended personal gain.

As a retired staff of the Amalgamated Union of Nigeria, Ayeoribe's achievements are a litany of triumphs. He was instrumental in the fight against the dismissal of 49 labour leaders in 1995, a battle that saw their sackings converted to retirements, with full benefits and entitlements paid.

"We were united, we fought, and we won," he says with a smile, crediting the unity of workers for the victory. It was a theme that would recur throughout his career – collective action, solidarity, and a refusal to back down.

Ayeoribe's experiences under military rule were particularly harrowing. Arrested and detained multiple times, he faced down regimes with a courage that earned him respect and admiration. "During military time, I was arrested several times and detained many times," he recounts, his voice steady.

But it was under civilian rule that he faced a different kind of challenge. Declared "persona non grata" by a governor, Ayeoribe stood his ground, refusing to be intimidated. "When you  were  a military governor in another state, they didn't tag you as someone who wanted to destroy their state," he told the governor, defusing the situation.

In Kwara State, the labour-government relationship is cordial, thanks to the current labour leaders' efforts, says Comrade Emmanuel Akin Ayeoribe, former NLC Chairman. Ideally, Ayeoribe notes, the relationship should be 'in-between' - not too cozy, but not adversarial either. This balance is crucial .

   On the national front, Ayeoribe  urges the federal government to tackle inflation, insecurity, and social challenges. 'The rate of inflation is too high and must change for better,' he says, echoing the sentiments of many Nigerians. Addressing these issues would go a long way in creating a more stable environment for all."

Today, Ayeoribe looks back on his journey with pride. "I was doing what was right, for the benefit of humanity," he says, quoting the Yoruba proverb, "A good name is better than silver and gold." His message to young activists is clear: "Don't see it as a way of making money, but to benefit humanity."

As he reflects on his life's work, Ayeoribe pays tribute to his mentors, particularly Comrade S.O.Z Ejiofor, who guided him in the early days. He also acknowledges his wife,  Mrs Rachel, a pillar of strength and support.

Now retired, Ayeoribe remains committed to the cause. "I'm not interested in taking any appointment with any government," he says, his independence uncompromising. "I'll speak truth to power, always."

In the twilight of his years, Comrade Ayeoribe's story serves as a beacon, inspiring a new generation of labour activists to stand up for justice, equality, and the rights of workers. His legacy is a testament to the enduring power of courage and conviction.

 **,Idris Alooma is the General Manager UNILORIN FM radio station and Deputy Director Corporate Affairs University of Ilorin