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 greater understanding than many university graduates despite lacking formal education.
MC Oluomo made the remarks on Sunday at 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 said he began working as a bus conductor in his teens, earning enough to support his mother while also paying for his leisure activities.
“I’ve been spending money since I was 13 years old. I worked as a conductor from 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. I would go to Danjuma Cinema to watch Indian movies with my own money, and I still took money home for my mother to buy food,” he said.
MC Oluomo said his emergence as NURTW president was the result of years of hard work and dedication rather than luck.
“I didn’t enter the NURTW as a bastard. I learnt the work, mastered it and got to where I am today. I didn’t go to school, but the knowledge and understanding I have in my head are greater than those held by people with degrees,” he said.
He also cited the achievements of his children as proof that he values education despite not attending school himself.
According to him, his children have pursued professional careers abroad.
“I always tell people that if I am uneducated, glory be to God. Today, my children are a doctor, a lawyer and an engineer, and they are in America. May God not allow our children to die young,” he added.
MC Oluomo also recalled his long-standing relationship with Saheed Osupa, saying they had known each other since childhood. He said he often ate meals at the home of Osupa’s late mother, adding that the Fuji singer was familiar with his humble beginnings.
He further criticised fathers who neglect the welfare of their wives and children, describing such behaviour as irresponsible.
“I have always said that any man who does not take care of his children is an enemy of God,” he said.
He lamented that many Nigerian women have become the primary providers for their families, taking responsibility for school fees, rent, feeding and clothing because some husbands have abandoned their responsibilities.
MC Oluomo also accused some men of prioritising children outside their marriages over their immediate families, warning that such actions could have consequences in the future.
