Tunde, Known as "Osama," Allegedly Strangles Keke Rider Amid Ticket Levy Dispute

A member of the Delta State Revenue Task Force team simply identified as Tunde has allegedly strangled a Keke rider, Augustine Williams, to death.

Tunde, popularly known as Osama, reportedly strangled Williams during a heated argument over ticket levy in Sapele.

Matters came to head on Tuesday evening, along Awolowo area as Tunde was said to have stopped Augustine’s tricycle demanding the daily revenue levy.

Sources, who pleaded anonymity, disclosed that a heated argument ensued as Tunde attempted to seize the tricycle key.

The news of Williams’ untimely demise has sent shockwaves through the community, sparking outrage and calls for justice. Friends, family members, and fellow Keke riders mourn the loss of a beloved member of their community, remembering Williams as a hardworking and dedicated individual who sought to earn an honest living through his work as a transport operator. His tragic death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by informal workers in Nigeria’s urban centers, where disputes over revenue collection and enforcement can escalate into violence with devastating consequences.

In the aftermath of Williams’ death, questions have emerged about the conduct of revenue task force teams tasked with enforcing ticket levies and other regulatory measures. While revenue collection is an essential function of government agencies tasked with maintaining public infrastructure and services, the manner in which it is carried out must be guided by principles of fairness, transparency, and respect for the rights and dignity of citizens. Incidents of violence and abuse perpetrated by revenue collectors undermine public trust and confidence in government institutions, necessitating urgent reforms and accountability mechanisms to address systemic issues and prevent further harm.

In an attempt to stop him, Augustine grabbed Tunde’s hand, as the situation degenerated into a brawl.

Shockingly, amidst the melee, Tunde was alleged to have grabbed his neck causing him to collapse in distress.

“He was shaking uncontrollably and we managed to revive him briefly before rushing him to the hospital,” an eyewitness said. Doctors were said to have declared Augustine dead on arrival.

The incident sparked outrage among onlookers, with fellow Keke drivers citing daily harassment and extortion at the hands of the revenue task force.

With tension mounting, the angry riders who had mobilised other Keke and Okada riders were about hitting the streets for protest when the police stopped them.

Ese Agbamitor, a fellow Tricycle rider, who voiced his frustration, accused the revenue team enforcers of creating an unbearable environment.

As the community of Sapele grapples with the shock and grief of Williams’ death, there is a collective determination to seek justice and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again. Beyond the immediate quest for accountability, there is a pressing need for broader systemic reforms to address the underlying issues driving conflicts between transport operators and revenue collectors. By fostering dialogue, promoting transparency, and upholding the rule of law, policymakers can work towards creating an environment where all citizens can earn a livelihood free from fear, intimidation, and violence.

The tragic death of Augustine Williams serves as a sobering reminder of the risks faced by informal workers in Nigeria’s urban centers and the urgent need for reforms in the administration of revenue collection and enforcement. As the community mourns his loss and seeks justice, there is an opportunity to address systemic issues, promote accountability, and build a more inclusive and equitable society where the rights and dignity of all citizens are respected and upheld.