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Tragic Killing of Former NURTW Unit Chairman in Osogbo
Kazeem Oyewole, who previously held the position of part-time chairman for the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Aregbe Unit from 2018 to 2022, was reportedly murdered by unidentified assailants in Osogbo, Osun State. The fatal attack occurred near Elelede Junction on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Details of the Incident
An eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, recounted to Punch that a group of hoodlums had been stationed at Elelede Junction, allegedly extorting money from passersby under the pretense of raising funds for an upcoming carnival.
During this time, a motorcycle carrying two individuals approached the location. The hoodlums forced the riders off the bike and engaged them in a violent confrontation. Gunshots were reportedly heard, and one of the victims was later identified as Kazeem Oyewole. The attackers then used large stones to fatally strike Oyewole’s head, resulting in his immediate death. The second individual managed to escape with injuries. The perpetrators fled the scene before law enforcement arrived.
Community Impact and Response
Basira, a local shopkeeper near Elelede Junction, described how the violent episode abruptly halted business activities in the area. She confirmed that the deceased was recognized by members of the NURTW as Kazeem Oyewole, the former part-time chairman of the Aregbe Unit along Osogbo/Gbongan Road.
Police Investigation and Security Measures
Osun State Police Command’s Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, verified the occurrence of the attack and confirmed that investigations are underway. “We responded promptly upon receiving the report of the incident at Orita Elelede, Osogbo. Unfortunately, one person was confirmed dead, identified as Kazeem. The probe is ongoing,” he stated.
Regarding preventive actions, Ojelabi mentioned that security personnel are actively monitoring motor parks and surrounding areas to prevent further violence and maintain public safety.
Context and Broader Implications
This incident highlights ongoing security challenges in parts of Osun State, where criminal gangs sometimes exploit public spaces for extortion and violence. According to recent data from the Nigerian Security Tracker, violent crimes in the southwestern region have seen a 12% increase in the past year, underscoring the urgent need for enhanced law enforcement presence and community vigilance.
Similar cases in neighboring states have prompted authorities to implement community policing initiatives and increase surveillance at transport hubs, aiming to curb the influence of such criminal elements.
