16th September, 2010
Following yesterday’s clash between factions of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, NURTW, in Ibadan, Oyo State, South West Nigeria, which left some people dead and several others injured, commuter bus operators deserted the roads and motor parks today.
Many commuters were stranded at various bus stops while others resorted to begging private car owners to give them a ride.
Many were seen trekking long distances to their various destinations.
In places like Iwo Road, Sango, Ojoo and Mokola visited by P.M.NEWS this morning, commercial activities were totally paralysed.
It was gathered that some hoodlums clashed again at Ojoo but it was quelled by the police.
Armed policemen and armoured personnel carrier have been deployed at strategic positions near the troubled spot to forestall further mayehm.
Speaking on the crisis, Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Alhaji Taofeek Arapaja promised a full fledged investigation into the issue.
Commenting on the crisis, the Oyo State Command Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Bisi Okuwobi assured the public of their security, stressing that the police are on top of the situation as the necessary security measures have been put in place to guarantee the safety of the citizens.
Meanwhile, an Oyo State High Court sitting at Ring Road, Ibadan yesterday dismissed the application filed by reinstated Akinsola’s major rival, Eleweomo to be joined as a defendant in the suit filed by Tokyo against the Oyo State Governor Adebayo Alao Akala and the state Commissioner of Police to enforce his reinstatement.
The court ruled that Eleweomo’s application lacked merit.
Justice Olagunju ruled that the applicants have failed to prove what they stood to gain or lose if they were not joined as defendants in the suit.
He adjourned the substantive suit till 18 October, 2010.
—Gbenro Adesina/Ibadan
