One killed as NURTW members clash in Ondo

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One killed as NURTW members clash in Ondo

One person has been confirmed dead following a clash between members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Ikare Akoko, Akoko North-East Local Government Area of Ondo State.

The middle-aged man identified as Semiu Aliu was reportedly hit by a stray bullet after a fracas erupted between the unionists at the popular Oloko park of the town.

Daily Trust reported that the violent clash ensued after a faction of commercial drivers decided to load passengers at a section of the park against the government directive.

The situation forced many traders in the park to hurriedly close down their shops for fear of being caught in the melee. Aliu who is deaf and dumb, was caught up while trying to manoeuvre his way home when the fight was ongoing.

An eyewitness, Mr Idowu Abimbola told the publication;

“The crisis started when some NURTW members were loading passengers at the spot where the government had banned everyone from loading especially in the Oloko axis.

“After they were challenged, the drivers obeyed and left the park but they came back in their numbers with those from Iyometa and started throwing stones.

“When that was going on, the rain started, and that made everyone hurriedly leave the scene. After the rain subsided, they came out again with guns and started shooting sporadically.

“That was how Aliu fell victim and was shot. He was rushed to Oke Royal Hospital. It was later we were told that he was deaf and dumb.”

Confirming the incident in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, (PPRO), Mrs Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, said the police had begun an investigation into the case.