The Ogun State government has issued a warning to the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), threatening to shut down their activities over a planned protest.
This comes after reports that some members of the union in Ijebu Ode are planning to challenge the decisions of the union’s leadership through demonstrations.
In response, the government has made it clear that it will not allow any group to disturb the peaceful environment that has been maintained in the state.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo, stated that the government will take action if there is any attempt to cause unrest or disrupt public order.
In an official statement, Dairo explained that the Ministry of Transportation is aware of the situation involving NURTW members in Ijebu Ode.
The commissioner reminded the union members of their responsibility to operate within the laws and regulations of Nigeria. He also urged them to follow the constitution of their union and use the appropriate dispute resolution methods to address their concerns.
The statement warned that if the peace and security of the state are threatened, the government will not hesitate to restrict the activities of the NURTW in public spaces. Parks and garages, the government emphasised, are public assets meant for the safe use of everyone, and they will not be allowed to become grounds for conflict.
The statement reads:
“It has come to the attention of the Ogun State Ministry of Transportation that some 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 to demonstrate their grievances.
“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.
“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.
“The leadership and members of NURTW are enjoined to fully operationalise 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.