Key Witness in Deadly NURTW Violence on the run after multiple death threats as calls for justice grows

A key witness in the investigation of a deadly clash involving political thugs in Oyo State has been on the run after receiving multiple death threats. The witness, Olumide Ajose, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), is believed to hold crucial information about the incident whose sudden disappearance has sparked outrage, with victims’ families and concerned citizens demanding justice.

A Brutal Attack at Iwo Road

The attack took place at the Iwo Road Shopping Complex in Ibadan on June 16, 2021. Allegedly orchestrated by political thugs under the leadership of Alhaji Lamidi Mukaila, popularly known as Auxiliary, the violence resulted in the murder of 36-year-old businessman Rahmon Azeez, a father of newborn twins.

Auxiliary, a known political enforcer and close ally of Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, has long been accused of using violence to suppress opposition and maintain control over the lucrative transport sector. Despite numerous allegations, his strong political ties have shielded him from prosecution.

The Murder That Shook Ibadan

On the morning of his death, Azeez, a graduate of Lead City University and a phone dealer, had just secured a visa to reunite with his wife and newborn twins in the U.S. A dispute over parking at the shopping complex escalated when commercial drivers, angered by his insistence to clear the entrance, reported him to NURTW-affiliated park managers.

Eyewitnesses say a group of armed political thugs, allegedly loyal to Auxiliary, returned and brutally assaulted Azeez. He was chased, beaten, and stabbed in the chest. His attackers ensured he was dead before fleeing.

In the aftermath, businesses were vandalized, and fear spread throughout the complex. Enraged youths carried Azeez’s body to the Governor’s Office, demanding justice.

A Mother’s Anguish and a Family’s Plea

Azeez’s mother, Alhaja Salmot Azeez, heartbroken and demanding justice, dismissed claims that her son was involved in cultism.

> “My son was never a cultist. He was a phone dealer. I don’t know why Auxiliary had to kill him. I used to help him when he asked. This is a great loss to me,” she said tearfully.

His elder brother, Ahmed Azeez, claimed he was the intended target that day.

> “If they had found me, I wouldn’t be here now. I don’t understand why Auxiliary is still walking free,” he said.

The Exile of a Witness

Olumide Ajose, who had only gone to the shopping complex to buy a phone, witnessed the attack. When Governor Makinde called for witnesses, Ajose stepped forward, believing he was helping justice.

Days after giving his statement to the police, his home was attacked. His belongings were set on fire, and his dog was killed as a warning. When he sought police protection, authorities advised him to tread carefully concerning the case, admitting his safety was a priority.
Olumide received several calls and threats from unknown numbers which made life unbearable as the assailants were always ahead of him.

Ajose eventually fled for his dear life,with his whereabouts unknown and that of his wife and children.

Denials and Counterclaims

Despite overwhelming allegations, Alhaji Emiola Jelili, the Public Relations Officer of the Park Management System, denied Auxiliary’s involvement.

> “Oga (Auxiliary) did not attack anybody. He only arrived after receiving reports of a crisis,” Jelili claimed.

He also alleged that the incident was a dispute between two cultists over a faulty phone sale.

Government and Police Response

Governor Makinde visited the complex, appealing for calm and assuring justice.

> “I understand the pain and anger, but let the police do their job,” he said.

Oyo State Commissioner of Police, Ngozi Onadeko, also promised a thorough investigation.

> “This case will be painstakingly investigated, and justice will be served,” she assured.

A Justice System Under Siege

Despite these promises, the case remains unresolved. Auxiliary remains free, and NURTW’s influence over Oyo’s transport sector raises concerns about the government’s willingness to confront criminality.

For Azeez’s grieving family, Ajose’s forced exile, and the terrified traders at Iwo Road Shopping Complex, the demand for justice remains loud and urgent.