APC hails ALGON’s decision to suspend transport union activities

The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has supported the decision by the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in the state to suspend the activities of transport unions in public motor parks.

The party said the move is aimed at reducing violence and improving security across the state.

In a statement released on Tuesday by the APC Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, the party described the suspension as a necessary step to tackle recurring clashes and violent incidents linked to motor parks.

According to the APC, the announcement made by Osun ALGON Vice Chairman, Lanre Balogun, shows the commitment of local government authorities to protecting lives and property.

The party said the suspension would help reduce unlawful killings and restore order in motor parks while additional security measures are being considered.

The APC stated that local government chairmen could not remain silent while residents were being attacked and killed. It argued that suspending transport union activities was the right decision under the circumstances.

The opposition party also accused the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke of not doing enough to address security challenges in the state. It alleged that some individuals involved in violent activities were being protected by the government and claimed that some transport union leaders hold political appointments in the current administration.

The APC further alleged that some political thugs were being sheltered by the state government and were using that protection to avoid arrest and prosecution.

The party maintained that elected local government chairmen have a duty to ensure that public facilities under their control do not become centres of violence or insecurity, regardless of political differences.

Defending ALGON’s authority to issue the directive, the APC cited provisions of the 1999 Constitution, saying local governments have the power to regulate motor parks and maintain public order.

The party urged those criticising the suspension to study the constitutional responsibilities of local government councils before questioning the legality of the decision.