NURTW boss escapes robbery attack in Ibadan 

South West chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Alhaji Taofeek Oyerinde (Fele) was on Thursday night in Ibadan attacked by suspected armed robbers.

Speaking with Tribune Online, Oyerinde who is also the Chairman of NURTW Oyo State chapter disclosed that he was attacked by men who came in two Audi cars around 8:33pm, adding that the quick intervention of the police officers attached to him saved the situation.

He stated that it was the second time such robbery attack had occurred within nine months.

“The attack occurred around Soka/Methodist area along new Garage when two black Audi cars with unknown registration numbers blocked me around 8:33pm on my way home. They brought out Ak47 rifles and started shooting sporadically.

“They did not know my security personnel were behind me too in a Hilux bus and once my men started shouting, they fled and escaped through Lagos/Ibadan expressway. I just want to thank the Almighty for giving me the grace to survive another attack.

“I was also attacked last year by men who came in a Peugeot 406 and Corolla cars with registered number plates as SMK 752 XM and MUS 285 and I reported the incident in my statements to the police here in Ibadan and Abuja.

“This time round, I have also reported the incident to the Police Commissioner in Oyo State, Mr Abiodun Odude and he asked me to make a statement at the Orita Challenge police station which I have done,” Fele said.

He urged the authorities to further ensure the safety of life and property of the citizenry adding that he would be glad if the incident could be unravelled by the police in the state.

“I will like the police to investigate the matter and I would be happy if they can fish out the people behind this unholy act,” Oyerinde said.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Kunle Ajisebutu, confirmed the incident, assuring that the police have begun investigation of the gun attack.

“The DPO of the station where Mr Oyerinde lodged a complaint confirmed the incident to me. According to him, the people (the suspected attackers) were in two unmarked black Audi cars.

“I was told that they shot into the air but they didn’t shoot directly at the man. The police moved down with a view to arrest the suspected gunmen, but unfortunately they escaped.

“Though the man (the NURTW boss) said he could not identify the attackers, the police have started investigations, with a view to arrest the suspects,” he said.