Police Arrest NURTW Faction Leader Baruwa Following Dramatic Secretariat Takeover in Abuja
The Nigerian Police Force took decisive action on Monday, March 23, by arresting Tajudeen Baruwa, a prominent faction leader within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). This arrest occurred shortly after Baruwa, accompanied by a group of his supporters, forcefully took control of the union's national secretariat located in Abuja. The incident marks a significant escalation in the ongoing internal leadership conflict that has plagued the NURTW since 2024.
Details of the Secretariat Invasion and Subsequent Arrest
Earlier reports confirmed that Baruwa's faction executed a dramatic early-morning invasion of the NURTW headquarters, successfully seizing the premises from the rival faction led by Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC Oluomo. The takeover involved Baruwa and his allies storming the building, which led to immediate tensions and prompted police intervention. Hours after the takeover, law enforcement officials moved in to apprehend Baruwa, citing the need to restore order and address the unlawful occupation of the union's property.
Background of the NURTW Leadership Dispute
The arrest is rooted in a protracted leadership tussle between the factions of Tajudeen Baruwa and MC Oluomo. In November 2024, members of the NURTW elected MC Oluomo as the National President, a decision that initially solidified his position. However, the dispute quickly escalated into a legal battle when Baruwa challenged the election results in court. The judiciary later ruled in favor of Baruwa, creating a complex power struggle that has since fueled ongoing confrontations and instability within the union.
This internal conflict has not only disrupted the operations of the NURTW but also raised concerns about public safety and union governance. The recent events in Abuja highlight the volatile nature of the dispute, with both factions vying for control amid legal and physical confrontations. The police arrest of Baruwa underscores the authorities' commitment to maintaining law and order, though it remains to be seen how this will impact the broader resolution of the leadership crisis.
As the situation develops, stakeholders are closely monitoring the aftermath of the arrest and its implications for the future of the NURTW. The union, which plays a critical role in Nigeria's transport sector, faces ongoing challenges in achieving stability and unity among its members.
