LAGOS — The Organising Secretary of the Lagos State Council of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Toba Ijaya, is dead after being shot by unidentified gunmen in Lagos, sparking fresh calls for reforms within the union.
Ajiboye died on Tuesday from gunshot wounds sustained during an attack on Sunday in the Fadeyi area of Somolu Local Government Area, where he was reportedly returning from a political gathering.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants intercepted his vehicle and opened fire at close range before fleeing the scene.
He was rushed to a nearby hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries despite efforts by medical personnel.
The Lagos State Police Command confirmed the incident and said investigations were ongoing to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Police authorities urged residents to remain calm and provide credible information that could aid the investigation, assuring that those responsible would be brought to justice.
Reacting, Chairman of the Lagos State NURTW Council, Mustapha Adio Adekunle, popularly known as Sego, described the killing as devastating.
“The news of the sudden passing of Comrade Toba Ajiboye has left me deeply saddened and heartbroken. It is difficult to come to terms with the loss of such a loyal, dependable and committed ally,” he said.
He added, “Your loyalty, friendship and unwavering support will forever remain in my heart. You will be deeply missed.”
The killing has heightened tension in parts of Lagos and reignited concerns over recurring violence linked to factions within the transport union.
Residents and stakeholders warned that the incident could have wider security implications if not urgently addressed.
Although the motive for the attack remains unclear, the incident has revived public debate over long-standing allegations of violent rivalries within sections of the NURTW, particularly in the South-West.
Security has since been reinforced around the Fadeyi axis, with police deploying additional personnel to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
Analysts say the latest killing underscores the need for structural reforms within the union to promote internal discipline, professionalism and peaceful dispute resolution.
They argue that sustained violence has continued to overshadow the union’s critical role in managing motor parks and supporting Nigeria’s transport system.
The union’s National President, Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, has in the past survived violent attacks, amid unresolved concerns about internal conflicts, though no official findings have conclusively established such links.
Observers maintain that the current leadership has an opportunity to reposition the union and restore public confidence through reforms and stronger governance mechanisms.
Meanwhile, many Nigerians have called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate Ajiboye’s killing, identify both perpetrators and sponsors, and ensure swift prosecution.
They insist that justice and institutional reforms remain key to preventing further violence and safeguarding lives within the transport sector.
