Osun ALGON suspends transport union activities over rising violence

The Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Osun State has suspended the activities of all transport unions across the state, citing escalating violence and concerns for public safety. The move comes after reported clashes between rival transport groups, which have led to fatalities and injuries, disrupting normal life.

“

Our motor parks have gradually become criminal hideouts and are no longer safe for members of the public. Consequently, people are beginning to lose confidence in the park and garage system, which remains the primary means of transportation across the state.

ALGON Vice Chairman, Mr. Lanre Balogun, stated that the suspension is necessary to prevent the situation from devolving into a full-blown crisis. He explained that public motor parks have increasingly become criminal hideouts, eroding public confidence in the transportation system. Recent incidents, including the killing of a toddler and the shooting of an elderly man, have triggered reprisal attacks and prompted security operations.

Balogun announced that the suspension affects all transport unions, including motorcycle and tricycle operators, in public motor parks, effective immediately. The association has urged security agencies to assume control of all motor parks and garages to ensure the protection of lives and property.

“

Accordingly, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun State Chapter, hereby suspends the activities of all transport unions in Osun State, including motorcycle and tricycle unions, in all public motor parks with immediate effect.

Furthermore, ALGON called for intensified efforts to apprehend individuals allegedly involved in the recent violence, specifically naming NURTW factional leader Nurudeen Alowonle. The association stressed that local governments have the constitutional authority to regulate motor parks and maintain order, asserting they cannot stand by while facilities under their jurisdiction become security threats.

“

If the Governor chooses political considerations over public safety, we, as elected Local Government Chairmen, cannot fold our arms and allow facilities under our lawful authority to become threats to peace and security.