FLASH: Lagos NURTW Chairman Distances Union from Member Arrested in Fatal Incident

The Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has been thrust into the spotlight following the arrest of one of its members, identified as Samsideen Oladiti, popularly known as “Shamelon,” over allegations involving a tragic fatality.

In a statement issued by Alhaji Mustapha Adekunle, also known as Sego and the Chairman of Lagos State NURTW, he expressed profound disappointment and sadness over the incident implicating one of his once-trusted loyalists. While affirming the man’s past loyalty, Adekunle unequivocally condemned the acts attributed to him, emphasizing that such behavior is solely his and does not reflect the values or stance of the NURTW.

The arrested member, aged 55, is currently held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti-Yaba, Lagos, facing investigations for his alleged involvement in two violent acts — a fatal assault on one individual and a serious injury to a dispatch rider who remains in critical condition. The incident reportedly ignited protests at the suspect’s office in Sandgrouse Market, Lagos Island, leading to heightened tensions that required police intervention to restore order.

Chairman Adekunle called on law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation, pledging that after the due legal process, the union would also enforce its own disciplinary measures. He reiterated the union’s zero-tolerance policy against violence and unlawful conduct.

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He extended heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and urged them to engage with the Lagos State NURTW for any support. The chairman also addressed social media users and bloggers, requesting that they refrain from unfairly linking him to the incident, stressing the importance of responsible reporting.

In closing, Alhaji Sego reaffirmed his commitment to peace, order, and the rule of law within the union and the wider Lagos community, underscoring that loyalty within the union does not equate to condoning maltreatment or criminal behavior.