The President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, has said his life experience and practical knowledge have given him more understanding than many university graduates despite not having a formal education.
According to Premium Times on Monday, MC Oluomo made the remarks on Sunday during the 50th birthday celebration of Islamic singer Hafsat Adegoke and the unveiling of her new album in Alausa, Lagos.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including Fuji musician Saheed Osupa.
Reflecting on his early years, the transport union leader recounted how he started working as a bus conductor as a teenager, saying he earned enough to support his mother while still enjoying simple pleasures such as going to the cinema.
He said he had been earning and spending his own money from a young age, working as a bus conductor between noon and 6 p.m., after which he would watch Indian movies at Danjuma Cinema and still have enough money to give his mother for food.
MC Oluomo attributed his rise to the leadership of the transport union to years of hard work, dedication and learning the trade.
He said he did not become the NURTW president by chance, stressing that he worked his way through the ranks after mastering the job. Although he did not receive formal education, he maintained that the knowledge and understanding he has acquired through experience surpass those of many degree holders.
The NURTW president also pointed to the achievements of his children as evidence that, despite lacking formal education, he placed a high value on educating his family.
He disclosed that his children have pursued professional careers in the United States, noting that they include a doctor, a lawyer and an engineer. He expressed gratitude to God and prayed for the long lives of all children.
MC Oluomo also reminisced about his relationship with Saheed Osupa, revealing that they had known each other since childhood.
He recalled eating meals in the home of Osupa’s late mother while growing up and said the Fuji singer was familiar with his humble beginnings.
Speaking further, he criticised fathers who neglect the welfare of their wives and children, describing such behaviour as unacceptable.
He said any man who fails to take care of his children is acting against God’s will.
MC Oluomo lamented that many women have become the primary providers for their families, paying school fees, rent, clothing and feeding their children because some husbands have abandoned their responsibilities.
He also accused some men of prioritising children outside their marriages over their own families, warning that such actions would have consequences later in life.