A close associate of the late National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) leader Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Toba Ijaya, has shared an emotional account of the union chief's kindness and generosity, revealing a side of him that many may not have seen. The associate spoke in a tribute following Toba Ijaya's tragic death on July 12, 2026, when he was attacked by armed men along Ikorodu Road while returning home from his childhood neighbourhood in Fadeyi, Lagos. He was buried on Tuesday, July 21, amid mixed emotions.
Associate Describes Toba Ijaya as a Mentor Who Never Turned Anyone Away
According to the mourner, Toba Ijaya treated everyone who came to him for help, regardless of their status or circumstances. The associate recalled that Toba would patiently attend to people who visited him, even when dozens of others were waiting. His calm nature and welcoming smile made people feel comfortable enough to share their problems with him. “He is my confidence. He is my mentor. He was a very good person to me and my family,” the associate said.
Quiet Philanthropy: Toba Ijaya Sponsored Education and Supported Widows
The most striking revelation concerns Toba Ijaya's alleged quiet philanthropy. The mourner claimed that the late union leader sponsored the education of numerous children and operated a foundation that supported children, widows and elderly people. According to him, the number of students whose school fees Toba paid was difficult to quantify. The associate stressed that Toba never sought public recognition for his generosity.
“He would attend to everyone,” the associate added, describing how Toba made time for all who sought his help. The associate urged those who believed in Toba's vision to continue the humanitarian work he started.
Details of the Attack and Burial
Toba Ijaya was fatally shot after gunmen ambushed his vehicle in Fadeyi, Lagos, on July 12, 2026. He later died from his injuries and was buried at his residence in Ketu. The attack occurred along Ikorodu Road as he was returning from his childhood neighbourhood. Reports from The PUNCH Newspaper confirmed the incident.
In related news, members of the NURTW re-elected Alhaji Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC Oluomo, for a second term in office as Lagos State chairman. The acting NURTW chairman and 30 other executive members were elected unopposed during the election.
