Police authorities have arrested Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa following a dramatic confrontation at the National Secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), after he reportedly led members of his faction to take control of the union’s headquarters from supporters of Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo.
According to eyewitness accounts, Baruwa and loyalists stormed the NURTW national office early in the day, claiming authority to assume leadership based on a recent court ruling said to have reinstated him as the union’s National President.
The move allegedly triggered tension around the secretariat as rival factions gathered at the premises, raising fears of violence before security operatives intervened.
Police officers were deployed to restore order and prevent clashes between supporters of both camps.
Security sources confirmed that Baruwa was taken into custody shortly after the incident. Authorities said the arrest was carried out to prevent a breakdown of law and order and to allow investigations into the circumstances surrounding the attempted takeover.
A police spokesperson noted that no individual or group would be allowed to enforce court decisions through self-help or actions capable of causing public unrest.
The development marks the latest escalation in the ongoing leadership dispute within the NURTW, one of Nigeria’s most influential transport unions. The crisis intensified after conflicting claims emerged over who legitimately occupies the position of national president.
While Baruwa’s faction insists a court judgment favours his leadership, supporters of MC Oluomo maintain that the existing union structure remains valid pending further legal clarification.
Authorities have urged union members nationwide to remain calm and avoid violence while legal processes continue. Analysts warn that prolonged instability within the NURTW could disrupt transport coordination across major cities if not swiftly resolved.
Police say investigations are ongoing, and further updates will be communicated as developments unfold.
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