Contrary to claims made by the former chairman of the Ogun State chapter of the Articulate Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (AMORAN), Otunba Nurudeen Aina Alowonle, that he merely took a leave of absence, the leadership of the union had countered the claim with verified documents revealing that he officially resigned from his position in August 2024.

Alowonle, who has now approached the Ibadan Division of the National Industrial Court, insists that he did not step down but only took a temporary leave. However, the union, in a statement issued by its public relations officer, Comrade Arowolo Adebola (AROKEM), insisted that the former chairman voluntarily submitted a resignation letter, duly signed and addressed to the union’s state executive members, citing his intention to pursue his lifelong political ambition.

Following the receipt and official reading of his resignation letter, the state executive council of AMORAN unanimously elected Otunba Taofeek Sokoya as the new chairman, in line with the union’s constitutional provisions.

Reacting to Alowonle’s claims, sources within the union expressed surprise, emphasizing that the former chairman’s resignation was a clear and documented process. They maintained that the leadership transition was conducted transparently and in accordance with the union’s guidelines.

“Otunba Alowonle’s resignation letter was officially received and read before the entire executive committee. He made it clear that he was leaving to focus on his political career and pursue his lifelong ambition of becoming the executive chairman in Sagamu local government and the council moved forward by electing a new leader. It is surprising that he is now contesting this fact,” a senior executive member of the union stated.

Legal experts suggest that with a signed resignation letter on record, Alowonle’s case may struggle to hold ground in court. The union remains firm in its stance that his departure was voluntary and final and they stand by the legitimacy of Otunba Taofeek Sokoya’s leadership.