The Vice President of the North Central Zone of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Alhaji Salihu Adamu, has urged the federal government to take immediate action to resolve the ongoing leadership crisis within the union. He warned that the prolonged dispute threatens the stability of the organization and its members nationwide.
Speaking in an interview with Radio Nigeria in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Alhaji Adamu expressed concern that without urgent intervention, the situation could escalate further.
“The National Industrial Court of Nigeria, in its judgment, affirmed that Alhaji Ibikunle Baruwa was duly re-elected as president of our great union. The Court of Appeal also upheld this decision on 8 November 2024. However, due to the non-enforcement of the court’s judgment, some individuals are bent on causing instability in our union,” he stated.
He emphasized the need for the federal government, particularly the Inspector General of Police, the Attorney General of the Federation, and the Minister of Labour and Employment, to implement transparent intervention measures.
“There is a need for urgent action to restore peace in the union. Our members across the states are becoming apprehensive due to the crisis. The federal government should take action in the interest of peace,” Adamu added.
The NURTW leadership crisis, which began in 2023, has led to multiple court cases and increased external interference, causing disruptions at the union’s National Secretariat in Abuja. Adamu alleged that certain individuals with vested interests are deliberately working to destabilize the union.
He called on security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for fueling the crisis.
No Fare Increase Despite New Tolling System
On a separate issue, Alhaji Salihu Adamu commended the federal government for its efficient implementation of the tolling system on the Keffi-Makurdi highway in Nasarawa and Benue states. He assured commuters that there were no plans to increase fares despite the introduction of toll payments.
Meanwhile, our correspondent visit to the Aboshon and Garaku Toll Plazas revealed that the initial traffic congestion caused by the new system has significantly reduced due to improvements in electronic payment processing. (FRCN)