The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has strongly criticised what it described as an unlawful occupation of its national secretariat in Abuja, as tensions escalate over a prolonged leadership dispute.
Addressing reporters, the union’s General Secretary, Kayode Agbeyangi, said the incident violated established legal procedures and undermined ongoing court processes.
He alleged that supporters of Tajudeen Baruwa stormed the secretariat without official notice, claiming authority based on a court ruling.
According to Agbeyangi, the group reportedly entered the premises early in the day, damaging property and removing items belonging to the union.
He emphasised that the action took place despite pending legal cases and an existing appeal challenging the judgment cited by the group.
The union insisted that it had already secured a stay of execution, making any attempt to enforce the ruling unlawful.
Agbeyangi warned against self-help, stressing that enforcement of court decisions must follow due process.
He added that no staff were present during the incident, which helped prevent possible clashes.
The NURTW also called on security agencies to investigate the situation and ensure the safety of its facilities.
Reacting separately, Musiliu Akinsanya (MC Oluomo), who also claims leadership of the union, described the development as regrettable.
He clarified that he was not part of the case referenced and maintained that the judgment is under appeal, with a stay already in place.
Akinsanya urged all parties to respect legal processes and avoid actions that could worsen tensions
The crisis traces back to the union’s 2022 internal elections, which produced rival claims to leadership and triggered multiple court battles.
Although the National Industrial Court had earlier recognised Baruwa as president, competing factions have continued to challenge the outcome, leaving the union divided.
The latest incident underscores the deepening leadership struggle within the NURTW and ongoing disputes over control of its national headquarters.
