Osun: Traders flee as gunshots force closure of motor parks amid forceful takeover

There was panic in Osogbo, Osun state, Monday, following the forceful takeover of motor parks by rival groups.

Following the declaration of Ademola Adeleke as reelected governor, Saturday, violence broke in some parts of the state, particularly at motor parks.

The incident forced traders and commuters to flee for safety amid the sound of gunshots.

Prior to the August 15, 2026 governorship election, the Nigeria Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Osun State Council, had inaugurated Kazeem Oyewale, popularly known as Asiri Eniba, as the state chairman following the takeover of the parks from Nurudeen Alowonle.

Motor parks across the state have continued to experience unrest and violent clashes following the announcement of governor Adeleke’s victory in Saturday’s gubernatorial poll.

Councils secretariats in Osun are being controlled by chairmen elected in October 2022 during the administration of former governor Adegboyega Oyetola.

They claimed that the Appeal court has reinstated them and they have approached the court to seek tenure elongation, claiming that they were sacked by governor Ademola Adeleke.

They were still in the office till the declaration of governor Adeleke as the winner of Saturday governorship election.

Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police for the election, CP Samuel Etaifo, in a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, called for caution following reports that individuals wearing yellow face caps associated with the Accord Party have stormed motor parks and local government council secretariats.

While congratulating the people of Osun state on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the gubernatorial election and commending stakeholders for their participation, the CP noted with grave concern reports of plans by certain groups to forcibly seize control of Local Government Area premises while related legal matters remain pending in court.

“The Police Command wishes to state clearly that no individual, political group, or association has the right to resort to self-help or the use of force to assume control of any Local Government Area or public institution while judicial proceedings are ongoing.

“All parties are urged to exercise patience and allow the courts to determine the matter in accordance with the law. Any attempt to forcibly occupy or disrupt Local Government facilities will be viewed as a serious breach of the peace and dealt with decisively in accordance with the law, including the arrest and prosecution of persons found culpable,” the statement read.

The police further enjoined parents, community and traditional leaders, political and youth leaders, and other key stakeholders to counsel their supporters against actions that could undermine the peace and security of the state.

CP Etaifo called on all citizens of Osun state to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and allow the judicial process to run its course.

He assured the public that the police will continue to safeguard lives and property while maintaining peace and public order across the state.