The Amalgamated Union of App Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has dismissed reports alleging a leadership crisis in its Lagos State chapter, describing the claims as false, misleading and unauthorised.
According to a report by The Guardian, the union, in a statement signed by its National Spokesperson, Comrade Jossy Adaraniwon, disowned an online publication suggesting internal leadership disputes, insisting that it does not reflect the official position of the union.
AUATON reaffirmed resolutions reached during its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held on April 24, 2026, maintaining that Comrade Jaiyesimi Azeez remains the duly recognised Chairman of the Lagos State chapter.
The union stated that the NEC has neither suspended nor removed Azeez and that he continues to discharge his responsibilities as the Lagos State chairman.
It also confirmed the suspension of Comrade Kolawole Aina as the South West Zonal Chairman pending investigations into allegations of insubordination and unauthorised publications.
The union further disclosed that Comrade David Nosa was suspended for conduct deemed detrimental to the unity and progress of the organisation, while the suspension of Comrade Tosin Akindele over alleged gross misconduct and actions capable of bringing the union into disrepute remains in effect.
AUATON said the disciplinary actions were taken to preserve the union’s integrity and prevent factionalism, insubordination and attempts to divide its membership.
The union cautioned Aina against the continued dissemination of what it described as false information and the alleged impersonation of the organisation, warning that such actions could undermine ongoing reconciliation efforts being facilitated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
It warned that any further violations could attract additional disciplinary measures and possible legal action in accordance with the union’s constitution.
AUATON also called on the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to monitor activities it believes could threaten public peace and destabilise the union.
The union reaffirmed its support for the leadership of its National President, Comrade Damola Adeniran, stressing that any announcement regarding votes of no confidence, leadership changes or removal made outside the National Executive Council lacks constitutional validity.
It also urged journalists and media organisations to verify information through its National Spokesperson before publication and appealed to members nationwide to disregard what it described as false reports while remaining committed to the union’s objectives of promoting decent work, fair remuneration and collective bargaining rights for app based transport workers.
Leave a comment