Osun ALGON suspends transport unions over rising motor park violence
Osun ALGON Suspends Transport Union Activities Amid Rising Violence
OSOGBO, Nigeria — The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun State chapter, has announced an immediate suspension of all transport unions operating in public motor parks throughout the state. This decision arises from escalating insecurity and violent conflicts linked to leadership disputes within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
Lanre Balogun, the Osun ALGON Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Ife East Local Government Council Area, made the announcement during a press conference on Monday, highlighting the deteriorating security situation in local motor parks and garages.
“The suspension applies to all transport unions, including motorcycle and tricycle organizations,” Balogun stated. He called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to take control of motor parks in the 30 local government areas and the Ife East Area Office in Modakeke to protect lives and property.
Balogun pointed to a series of violent incidents in Osogbo, including the tragic killing of a toddler and the shooting of an elderly man in a medical facility, alleging links to NURTW faction leader Nurudeen Alowonle. He urged law enforcement to expedite the arrest of Alowonle and others connected to these violent acts to seek justice for the victims.
“Motor parks have increasingly become sites of criminal activity, eroding public confidence in our transport system,” Balogun remarked. He underscored the constitutional responsibility of local government councils, citing the Fourth Schedule of the 1999 Constitution, which empowers them to regulate motor parks, maintain order, and bolster internally generated revenue.
Balogun criticized the state government’s response under Governor Ademola Adeleke, claiming a lack of decisive action against those fueling unrest. He emphasized that local government chairmen must ensure that facilities under their jurisdiction do not pose threats to public peace.
Following a recent protest in Osogbo, the Osun State Police Command reported it is investigating clashes between NURTW factions. According to a statement from Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the unrest erupted when one faction blocked another’s vehicles from entering a motor park, leading to violent confrontations.
The local government chairmen plan to collaborate with traditional leaders, religious figures, and community representatives before implementing further measures to restore order in the state. Balogun expressed hope that the suspension of transport union activities and enhanced security presence would improve public safety across Osun State.
