Lagos Police Take Steps to Prevent Transport Union Violence After Killing

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, is taking action to prevent a clash among transport union members. This comes after the killing of Toba Ajiboye, the Organising Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers. Tijani urged union members to avoid any retaliation and let the police finish their investigation.

Tijani made this statement during a meeting with leaders of the National Union of Road Transport Workers and the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria. He promised that the police would catch those responsible for Ajiboye’s death.

PUNCH Metro reported on Wednesday that Ajiboye was shot dead by unknown gunmen on Sunday. This event raised fears of possible retaliation among transport union members in the state.

Speaking to the union leaders, the police commissioner confirmed that a full investigation into the incident has started. He also mentioned that officers have been sent to key locations across Lagos to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

Tijani assured everyone that the results of the investigation would be shared once it is complete. He asked the leaders of NURTW and RTEAN to encourage their members to stay peaceful and avoid any actions that could disrupt public order.

He said, "The command has commenced a thorough investigation into the incident. We appeal to all parties to remain calm and allow the police to carry out their investigation without interference.

"We are committed to conducting a diligent, professional and unbiased investigation. Anyone found breaching the peace will be dealt with in accordance with the law."

The commissioner also called on the public to provide any credible information that could help the police identify and arrest those behind the killing.

In response, the Lagos State Chairman of the NURTW, Mustapha Adekunle, also known as Sego, praised the police for keeping the peace since the incident occurred. He mentioned that the union has held several meetings to promote peace among its members. Sego promised that anyone trying to cause trouble would be handed over to the police.

He stated, "We have continued to maintain peace since the incident. We will not tolerate any member who disobeys the directive to remain calm."

The Lagos State Chairman of the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria also expressed support for the police investigation. He assured that their members would not take any action that could lead to unrest.

He expressed faith that those responsible would face justice and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to peace across the state.

The meeting also suggested that public announcements be made to discourage residents and transport union members from engaging in actions that could lead to violence while the investigation is ongoing.