List of NURTW Leaders Killed in Lagos Violence

The killing of Toba Ajiboye, the Organising Secretary of the Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, has brought attention back to the cycle of violence in Lagos. Known as Toba Ijaya, he died from gunshot wounds after gunmen attacked his vehicle in the Fadeyi area on Sunday. His burial on Tuesday was attended by family, political associates, transport workers, and friends.

Ajiboye's death adds to the growing number of high-profile killings of transport union leaders. Many of these murders are linked to political rivalry, leadership struggles, and gang violence.

Here are some notable cases of violence involving the transport union over the years.

Alhaji Saula Saka (2008)

One of the first major killings occurred on January 6, 2008. Alhaji Saula Saka, the Lagos State Chairman of the NURTW, was shot dead at his home in Iyana Ipaja. Four armed men attacked him, according to the International Federation for Human Rights. Human rights groups called for an independent investigation and urged the government to find those responsible.

Azeez Otun (Ashake) (2014)

On September 20, 2014, Azeez Otun, known as Ashake, was shot dead after violence broke out following a PDP rally at Tafawa Balewa Square on Lagos Island. Two other people also lost their lives. Seven suspects were arrested but later released due to a lack of evidence, although more suspects were suggested for arrest.

Olayemi Eniola (Esi Oluwo) (2015)

In April 2015, Olayemi Eniola, also called Esi Oluwo or Baba Esi, died from injuries during a violent clash linked to political activities in Oshodi. Supporters claimed he was attacked by rival union members after an APC campaign rally. No court confirmed responsibility for his death, but it raised concerns about violence in transport union politics.

Kunle Mamowora (Mammok) (2015)

Kunle Mamowora, known as Mammok, who was Chief Security Officer to former Lagos NURTW chairman MC Oluomo, was shot near his family home in Oshodi. The attack was connected to political and transport union rivalry. In 2019, two men were ordered to be remanded for his murder but no clear results were reported. Mamowora was killed on September 30, 2015, while getting a haircut after visiting his father.

Rasaq Bello (Hamburger) (2017)

On May 29, 2017, Rasaq Bello, called Hamburger, was killed during violence at an APC local government primary election in Oshodi. He was caught in crossfire between rival groups, causing panic and fear among residents.

Ganiyu Ayinla (Pinero) (2018)

In January 2018, Ganiyu Ayinla, known as Pinero, was shot on Lagos Island while with a transport union chairman. The police later arrested four suspects, claiming the attack was related to upcoming union elections. The Lagos State Commissioner of Police noted that such killings often happen during NURTW elections.

Ismaila Azeez Ibrahim (Legacy) (2019)

During the APC governorship campaign in January 2019, Ismaila Ibrahim Azeez, known as Legacy, was stabbed to death during clashes among rival transport union members. His murder highlighted the connection between transport union politics and elections in Lagos.

Samuel Kayode (Ekpo Kinkin) (2021)

In July 2021, Samuel Kayode, called Ekpo Kinkin, was shot dead during an APC rally in Oriade Local Council Development Area. Union officials stated he was trying to protect another politician when gunmen attacked. The police confirmed the incident and began investigations.

Sulaimon Lawal Onaolapo (Arikuyeri) (2022)

In August 2022, Sulaimon Onaolapo, known as Arikuyeri, was killed during a clash for control of motor parks in Mile 12. He was attacked during a fight between rival groups. The police confirmed his death and said normalcy returned after their intervention.

Toba Ajiboye (Toba Ijaya) (2026)

The most recent victim is Toba Ajiboye, known as Toba Ijaya. He was shot by gunmen while leaving Fadeyi after visiting friends. He was rushed to the hospital but later died from his injuries. Three others in his vehicle were also shot and hospitalized. The police are searching for the attackers, and investigations are ongoing.

The killings of these transport union leaders over nearly two decades show a troubling pattern of violence tied to Lagos’ transport union politics. Many investigations have happened, but several cases remain unsolved, and convictions are few. Ajiboye’s death has renewed calls for stronger security and reforms to address the violent rivalries in the transport sector.