By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

The Ondo State House of Assembly has admonished the State Council of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to continue cooperating with the government to ensure relative peace and safety for the people.

The House Committee on Public Utilities and Transport, led by its Chairman, Barrister Stephen Abitogun, gave the admonition during a visit to the State Secretariat of the union in Igoba, Akure.

The Chairman of the Committee, who emphasised the need for a public-private relationship to fast-track development, acknowledged the importance of the NURTW in driving the transport sector.

He commended the current Chairman and other executives of the union for displaying a high level of maturity and composure since assuming office, as evidenced by the peace and unity within the union.

Abitogun noted that no private organisation exists without a relationship with the government and supervisory authority, urging the union to ensure maximum synergy and cooperation. “The government owns the parks, while you are the users.”

“You are major partners in the state’s security architecture, so do not allow intruders to enter through transportation. Ensure proper scrutiny of passengers and luggage to strengthen the system.”

The Vice Chairman of the Committee, Chief Olatunji Oshati, also stressed the need for concerted efforts and cooperation in boosting the union’s activities, promising legislative backing in achieving its set goals.

Other members urged the union to continue with its newly laid down legacy for a better future and to ensure the training of members across the state, especially as elections approach, to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair exercise.

The State Chairman of the Union, Comrade Ademola Odudu, who outlined their activities and challenges, informed the Committee that the major challenge is infrastructure.

He explained that members’ welfare has been prioritised, with dilapidated infrastructure being renovated since his inception, adding that other states in the federation are now emulating the Ondo State Union due to the relative peace and harmony within the union.

According to him, since he took office, he has not increased ticket prices, despite the rise in fares, assuring the Committee that he is in office to work and change some narratives.

While noting that the new executive has been advocating for mass transit from the government, he added that they have been assured it will be included in the next budget.

He therefore sought the House’s support in boosting the sector, promising not to relent in doing the right thing.

Earlier, while welcoming the Committee, the State Secretary of the Union, Alhaji Amosa Adebayo, said that the union recognised the critical role the Utility Committee plays in ensuring the effective delivery of essential services to citizens.

He stated that the interaction provided an opportunity to share experiences, challenges, and suggestions for improving the transportation sector.

He believed that collaboration between the legislature and key stakeholders in the union is vital for policy formation and implementation.