Gunmen kill Lagos NURTW organising secretary in broad daylight

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The Organising Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Lagos State Council, Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Ijaya, has been killed in a broad daylight attack by unidentified gunmen in Lagos. The incident occurred on Sunday night while he was returning home from his childhood neighbourhood in Fadeyi.

According to accounts of the incident, the gunmen intercepted his vehicle around the Ikorodu Road axis and opened fire, leaving his vehicle riddled with bullets. Photos and videos circulating on social media after the attack showed a white vehicle with multiple bullet holes on its windscreen and body. PREMIUM TIMES could not independently verify the authenticity of the footage.

The circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, while the identities of the assailants have yet to be established. Mr Ajiboye's death has sent shockwaves through Lagos, with many in the union community expressing grief and outrage at the senseless killing.

Reacting to the killing, the Chairman of the NURTW Lagos State Council, Mustapha Adekunle, popularly known as Sego, described Mr Ajiboye as a loyal ally, trusted friend and committed union leader. In a tribute shared on his Facebook page, Mr Adekunle stressed that he was devastated by the loss.

‘‘The news of the sudden passing of Comrade Toba Ajiboye has left me deeply saddened and heartbroken. It is difficult to come to terms with the loss of such a loyal, dependable and committed ally,’’ he wrote. Describing the deceased as a pillar of both the union and his political structure, Mr Adekunle noted that Mr Ajiboye’s years of service and loyalty would not be forgotten.

‘‘Comrade Toba Ajiboye, the Organising Secretary of the NURTW Lagos State Council, was more than an ally; he was a trusted friend, a man of steadfast loyalty and unwavering commitment, and a true pillar of TeamSego and SegoNation. His friendship, unwavering support and selfless dedication to the union over the years will forever remain etched in my heart,’’ he stated. He also extended his condolences to the deceased’s family, friends and members of the union.

As the NURTW struggles to come to terms with the loss of its organising secretary, questions are being raised about the security situation in Lagos and the ability of the authorities to protect its citizens. The Lagos State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the attack or announce any arrests in connection with the killing.

Lagos remains one of the most populous and economically vibrant cities in Africa, with millions of people living and working in the city. Despite the security challenges it faces, Lagos remains a major hub for trade and commerce in West Africa. The killing of Toba Ajiboye is a stark reminder of the dangers that lurk in the city, and the need for effective security measures to protect its citizens.

The Lagos State Council is headed by Mr Adekunle, while Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, currently serves as the National President of the NURTW following his emergence as the union’s national leader.

The killing comes amid renewed attention on the activities of transport unions in Lagos, where the NURTW remains one of the state’s most influential transport organisations, with members operating across motor parks and major commercial transport routes. Over the years, the union has experienced leadership disputes and occasional violent clashes linked to control of transport operations.

As the investigation into Mr Ajiboye’s killing continues, questions are being raised about the role of the security agencies in preventing such incidents. The Lagos State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement on the attack or announce any arrests in connection with the killing.

The NURTW has been at the center of several controversies in the past, including allegations of corruption and violence. The union has also been accused of being involved in the collection of tolls and other levies from transport operators without the approval of the Lagos State Government.

Mr Ajiboye was a key figure in the NURTW and played a crucial role in the union’s activities in Lagos. He was known for his ability to bring people together and resolve conflicts within the union. His death has sent shockwaves through the union community and has left many in a state of mourning.

In a statement, the NURTW said it was ‘‘shocked and saddened’’ by Mr Ajiboye’s death and promised to ‘‘do everything’’ to bring the perpetrators to justice. The statement also commended the security agencies for their efforts in preventing such incidents and urged them to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice.

The killing of Mr Ajiboye has sparked outrage on social media, with many calling for a thorough investigation into the incident. The hashtag #JusticeForToba has been trending on Twitter, with many Nigerians expressing their shock and outrage at the senseless killing.