Front Page Editorial: That dehumanizing rhetoric of APGA Lawmaker to protesting Anambra workers

By Tony Okafor

Yesterday’s ( June 3, 2024) exchange between Hon. Tony Muobike of APGA, representing Aguata Two Constituency, and labour union leaders at the Assembly Complex was a stark reminder of the disconnect between some of our elected representatives and the people they serve.

Muobike’s comments, suggesting that workers do not deserve a minimum wage and can be replaced by robots, are not only callous but also dehumanizing.

His threat of physical violence against union leaders is a disturbing display of aggression and intolerance.

It is unacceptable for a lawmaker to resort to such behavior, especially when faced with legitimate grievances from workers fighting for their rights.

Muobike’s rhetoric is a slap in the face to the hardworking men and women who keep our society running.

It perpetuates a harmful narrative that workers are expendable and disposable, and that their struggles are insignificant.

This kind of language has no place in our public discourse, especially from someone in a position of power and the ruling party( APGA) in the state.

To say the least, Muobike’s psyche on that occasion was incongruous to the spirit of APGA of ONYE AGHALA NWANNE( be your brother’s keeper)

We call on Hon. Muobike to apologize for his hurtful comments and to engage in constructive dialogue with the labour union leaders.

We also urge our lawmakers to recognize the value and dignity of workers and to work towards creating a more equitable society for all.

Let us stand together against such dehumanizing rhetoric and fight for a world where workers are respected, valued, and treated with the dignity they deserve.
Laborare est orare.