The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) has condemned the alleged takeover of its national secretariat, calling it illegal and a violation of proper legal procedures.

The union’s general secretary, Kayode Agbeyangi, said the incident occurred on Monday when Tajudeen Baruwa and his supporters reportedly forced their way into the secretariat, claiming the union’s presidency based on court rulings.

“They came without notice or legal authority, vandalised property, and removed items from the secretariat,” Agbeyangi said. “Such actions are unacceptable, especially while legal processes are ongoing. We strongly believe in due process and will continue to pursue lawful means to resolve this matter.”

He added that no union officials were present during the invasion, preventing confrontation or escalation, and stressed that the union had filed an appeal and obtained a stay of execution on the judgment cited by Baruwa.

Reacting to the incident, NURTW national president, Musiliu “MC Oluomo” Akinsanya, described the takeover as unfortunate. He clarified that he was not a defendant in the judgment relied upon by Baruwa and that the ruling had been appealed with a stay of execution in place.

The leadership dispute within NURTW dates back to the 2022 internal elections, which produced conflicting results. While the National Industrial Court declared Baruwa the duly elected president in 2023, rival factions have challenged his presidency, citing irregularities and pending court cases.

The incident marks the latest chapter in the union’s ongoing leadership tussle, with the secretariat increasingly becoming a flashpoint.

(NAN)