Total authority on transport operations, unions, associations and the informal transport sector in the state rests squarely on the State Government and not local, the Ogun State Government has warned.
The Ogun state Government clarified that regulations, licensing, approval and oversight of transport operations, unions, associations and the informal transport sector do not fall within the statutory powers of Local governments in Ogun state, but the responsibilities of the State Ministry of Transportation.
This was contained in a Release signed by the Commissioner For Transportation Engr Olugbenga Dairo , stating that the Law and established administrative practice, transport regulation, are the exclusive responsibilities of the state Ministry of Transportation which also has the right to formulate policy, issue approvals, recognise unions and associations and enforce compliance across the sector.
The Release further said the clarification came as result of the recent misinformation on the authority responsible for overseeing and regulating transport system in the State.
To this end, it has now been explained that Local Governments do not have the authority to: register, approve, suspend or recognize transport unions or associations in the State.
Local Governments cannot also cite autonomous jurisdiction; regulate the activities of informal transport operators; issue operational permits or impose regulatory levies outside State-approved frameworks and assume supervisory or disciplinary control over transport stakeholders.
It further spelt out the role of Local governments as strictly limited to collaboration and facilitation, as may be directed by the Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun and does not extend to regulation or approval.
The Release warns that any individual or entity claiming Local government authorization for transport union recognition, regulation or enforcement is acting outside the law and such acts are null and void.
Consequent upon the above, the State Government has said it will not hesitate to take appropriate action against misinformation or unlawful interference in the State-regulated responsibilities, the release stressed
It also advised transport operators, unions, associations and members of the public to take cognizance of this and engage only with duly authorized State institutions on matters relating to transport regulations in Ogun State, as the Government remained committed to maintaining order, clarity and professionalism in the transport sector.
