Labour activist Kunle Wizeman Ajayi has strongly criticised the newly formed Working Peoples United (WOPU), rejecting its reported endorsement of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s second-term bid and insisting that the coalition does not represent the interests or aspirations of Nigerian workers.

Ajayi described WOPU as “dead on arrival,” arguing that no credible labour organisation could claim to speak for Nigerian workers while supporting the current administration amid worsening economic hardship. He alleged that the coalition was created primarily to promote the Federal Government’s image and defend policies he described as anti-worker.

The labour activist criticised the reported involvement of former Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) President Williams Akporeha, who is said to be leading the coalition. According to Ajayi, WOPU is a coalition of labour bureaucrats rather than a genuine workers’ movement representing the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.

Ajayi argued that despite the implementation of the ₦70,000 national minimum wage, inflation and the rising cost of transportation, food, electricity, healthcare, education, accommodation, and communication have continued to erode workers’ purchasing power. He maintained that under such conditions, claims that Nigerian workers overwhelmingly support Tinubu’s re-election lack credibility.

He further accused sections of the labour leadership of becoming disconnected from the realities facing workers, alleging that some leaders have prioritised political relationships over the defence of workers’ welfare.

Ajayi also questioned WOPU’s inauguration, alleging that the presence of officials from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment and the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, reinforced his belief that the coalition was established to advance political interests rather than defend workers’ rights. He called on trade unions and workers to remain vigilant and safeguard the independence of the labour movement.