OSOGBO – The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun State Chapter, has announced the immediate suspension of the activities of all transport unions in public motor parks across the state, citing escalating violence, insecurity, and alleged criminal activities linked to the leadership crisis within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
The announcement was made during a joint press conference in Osogbo addressed by the Vice Chairman of Osun ALGON and Chairman of Irewole Local Government, Hon. Lanre Balogun, alongside the Chairman of Olorunda North Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Mohammed Gazal Kazeem.
The council chairmen expressed concern over what they described as the deteriorating security situation in motor parks and garages, alleging that the facilities have become flashpoints for violent clashes and criminal activities that now threaten commuters, transport operators, and residents across the state.
ALGON specifically referenced recent violent incidents in Osogbo allegedly linked to the factional Chairman of the NURTW, Nurudeen Alowonle. The chairmen alleged that the unrest resulted in the killing of a toddler and the shooting of an elderly man, who is reportedly receiving medical treatment. They added that the incidents had triggered reprisal attacks and repeated security operations in motor parks.
The local government leaders accused the Osun State Government of failing to take decisive action to address the worsening security challenges, arguing that public safety should take precedence over political considerations.
According to the association, motor parks, which serve as the backbone of public transportation in the state, have gradually become unsafe, leading to declining public confidence in the transport system.
The chairmen also recalled that fresh tension erupted in motor parks across the state on Monday following protests before the intervention of the Nigeria Police Force restored calm.
Citing the provisions of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), ALGON maintained that the administration and management of public motor parks fall within the constitutional responsibilities of Local Government Councils.
The association argued that Paragraph 1(e) of the Fourth Schedule empowers local governments to regulate motor parks, maintain public order, curb violence, and improve internally generated revenue.
Based on those constitutional provisions, ALGON announced the immediate suspension of all transport union activities in public motor parks throughout the 30 Local Government Areas and the Ife East Area Office (Modakeke). The directive, it said, also covers motorcycle and tricycle unions.
The association further called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to immediately take over all public motor parks and garages across the state to safeguard lives and property.
ALGON also urged security agencies to intensify efforts to arrest Nurudeen Alowonle and any other individuals alleged to have participated in the recent killings, stressing that justice for the victims is essential to restoring lasting peace.
The local government chairmen disclosed that they would continue consultations with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other community stakeholders before announcing further measures.
They expressed confidence that the steps taken would restore order to motor parks and strengthen the safety and security of residents across Osun State.
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