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The Ogun State Government has issued a strong warning to the National Union of Road Transport Workers, threatening to restrict their activities if peace and order are not maintained within the union.
This warning follows recent internal conflicts within the union, particularly in Ijebu Ode, which have raised concerns about public safety.
The government’s stance was outlined in a statement issued by the Ogun State Government and shared on its X platform (@OGSG_Official) on Sunday.
The government made it clear that it would not allow any group to disrupt the peaceful environment that has been cultivated in the state.
The statement comes after reports surfaced of a potential protest by some NURTW members in Ijebu Ode, who were allegedly challenging the decisions of the union’s established leadership in the state.
In response, the Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, cautioned the union members, warning that any attempt to disturb the peace would lead to restrictions on the union’s activities in public spaces.
Dairo stated, “It has come to the attention of the Ogun State Ministry of Transportation that some members of NURTW operating in Ijebu Ode are challenging the decisions of the established NURTW leadership in the state.
“Further to the above, it is reported that disaffected members propose to resort to violence as a means of demonstrating their grievances.”
He reminded the union of their responsibility to operate within the law, saying, “This bulletin is to notify and remind NURTW and its members of their corporate and personal/individual duty to conduct corporate and personal activities strictly within the ambit of the laws, rules, and regulations that the Constitution of Nigeria demands.”
Dairo reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining peace, warning, “NURTW and its members are therefore put on notice that the government of Ogun State, under the leadership of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, would not tolerate any disturbance of the peace in Ogun State so painstakingly achieved and sustained throughout the life of this administration.”
He urged the union to adhere to its constitution and utilize its internal dispute resolution mechanisms, emphasising, “The leadership and members of NURTW are enjoined to fully operationalize the constitution of the union and transparently activate the dispute resolution clauses and schedules contained therein as appropriate, and to avoid any action(s) that may endanger lives and property in our dear state.”
The statement concluded with a reminder that public transport facilities are state assets, not private properties, adding, “Finally, this message serves as a reminder to all stakeholders that parks and garages in Ogun State are public assets for the safe and secure use of all members of the public and not a preserve of third parties, and that, in the wider interest of the public, the government will not hesitate to restrict the activities of unions in public spaces if public safety and/or security is adjudged at risk.”
