The recent killing of the Organising Secretary of the Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Ijaya, has once again drawn attention to the history of violent attacks targeting prominent transport union leaders in Lagos.
Some of the well-known NURTW figures who have lost their lives in violent attacks over the years include:
- Alhaji Saula Saka (2008): A prominent Lagos NURTW leader who was assassinated, with the incident becoming one of the earliest high-profile killings linked to the union.
- Azeez Otun (Ashake) (2014): respected transport union leader who was killed in a violent attack.
- Olayemi Eniola (Esi Oluwo) (2015): Died after sustaining fatal injuries during a violent clash in Oshodi reportedly linked to political activities, sparking tension in the area.
- Kunle Mamowora (Mammok) (2015): Former Chief Security Officer to MC Oluomo, who was shot dead near his family home in Oshodi.
- Ismaila Azeez Ibrahim (Legacy) (2019): Stabbed to death during a factional clash at a political campaign event in Ikeja.
- Samuel Kayode (Ekpo Kinkin) (2021): Then Vice-Chairman of the Lagos NURTW, killed during violence at a political rally in the Agboju/Oriade area.
- Toba Ajiboye (Ijaya) (2026): The Lagos State NURTW Organising Secretary died after unidentified gunmen attacked his vehicle on Ikorodu Road. Police have launched a manhunt for those responsible.
These killings have repeatedly raised concerns over violence associated with transport union activities and political rivalries in Lagos, prompting renewed calls for stronger security measures and thorough investigations into attacks on union leaders.
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