Osun NURTW crisis deepens as faction takes over secretariat

By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

The leadership crisis in the Osun State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has taken a new turn, as a faction loyal to Kazeem Oyewale has taken over the union’s state secretariat despite an order suspending its activities.

Oyewale, popularly known as Asiri Eniba and a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), took control of the secretariat located in the Ijetu area of Osogbo from Wakili Nurudeen, also known as Alowonle, a member of the Accord Party, who had claimed a legal mandate to remain in office.

The development followed a violent clash between rival factions after supporters of the Eniba-led group staged a protest, disrupting business activities in the state capital and leading to the arrest of some suspects.

Following the unrest, chairmen of local government areas in the state announced the suspension of NURTW activities over rising security concerns.

The suspension affected operations of the union and motorcycle riders’ union across the state, with reports of gunshots in parts of Ilesa and Ile-Ife on Tuesday.

In a video circulating on social media, Oyewale was seen entering the union’s secretariat with his aides, inspecting offices and the main hall.

Speaking on the development, Oyewale confirmed that he had resumed office, saying the takeover was peaceful and followed a vote of no confidence passed against Alowonle by members.

“Yes, it is true that I have taken over. As I speak with you, I am in the office,” he said.

Efforts to get a reaction from Nurudeen were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls placed to his phone.

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