Osun NURTW crisis deepens as faction takes over secretariat

The leadership crisis within the Osun State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has escalated as a faction supporting Kazeem Oyewale seized control of the union's state secretariat. This move happened despite an official order suspending all NURTW activities in the state.

Oyewale, also known as Asiri Eniba and affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC), took over the secretariat in Osogbo from Wakili Nurudeen, who goes by Alowonle and is associated with the Accord Party. Nurudeen had previously claimed a legal right to remain in office.

The situation deteriorated following a violent clash between rival factions. Supporters of the Oyewale-led group staged a protest, disrupting business activities in the state capital and leading to several arrests. In response to the rising security concerns, local government chairmen announced the suspension of NURTW operations, impacting motorcycle riders and union activities across Osun.

Reports of gunshots emerged from parts of Ilesa and Ile-Ife on Tuesday. In a social media video, Oyewale was seen entering the secretariat with his aides, inspecting the premises. He confirmed his resumption of office, describing the takeover as peaceful and citing a vote of no confidence passed against Nurudeen by union members.

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