Osun NURTW crisis deepens as APC-backed faction seizes state secretariat

The leadership crisis rocking the Osun State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has escalated, with a faction led by Kazeem Oyewale taking control of the union’s state secretariat despite an order suspending its operations.

Oyewale, popularly known as Asiri Eniba and reportedly aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC), assumed control of the NURTW secretariat in the Ijetu area of Osogbo.

The takeover displaced Wakili Nurudeen, also known as Alowonle, who is associated with the Accord Party and had maintained that a court ruling authorised him to remain in office.

The latest development comes after a violent confrontation between rival factions. The clash erupted when supporters of the Eniba-led group staged a protest that disrupted commercial activities in parts of Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The unrest prompted security operatives to intervene, leading to the arrest of several suspects as authorities worked to restore order.

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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