The leadership crisis within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) escalated on Monday as a faction led by Tajudeen Baruwa forcefully took control of the union’s national secretariat in Abuja.
According to reports, members loyal to Baruwa stormed the headquarters in the early hours of the day, asserting their authority amid a prolonged internal dispute over the union’s leadership. The development marks a significant turning point in the ongoing power struggle that has divided the influential transport union since 2024.
The crisis pits Baruwa against Ayinde Akinsanya, widely known as MC Oluomo, who was elected as the union’s National President in November 2024. Despite his election, the leadership contest soon became contentious, eventually leading to legal action.
A court ruling later favoured Baruwa, effectively recognising his claim to leadership. However, the judgment did little to resolve the dispute, as MC Oluomo continued to function as president, maintaining control over key structures within the union and retaining the loyalty of a significant faction of members.
Monday’s takeover of the secretariat appears to be Baruwa’s camp’s most decisive move yet to enforce the court’s decision and assert physical control over the union’s administrative base. While details of any resistance or confrontation remain unclear, the development is likely to heighten tensions between the rival camps.
The National Union of Road Transport Workers is one of Nigeria’s most powerful labour unions, with substantial influence across the country’s transport sector and grassroots political networks. As such, its leadership disputes often carry wider political and economic implications.
Observers warn that the continued rivalry risks destabilising union operations and could spill over into broader security concerns if not urgently resolved. The situation also raises questions about the enforcement of judicial decisions in internal union matters.
As of the time of reporting, neither faction had issued an official statement regarding the latest development. However, stakeholders are expected to call for restraint and renewed dialogue to prevent further escalation.
With both sides holding firm to their positions, the NURTW faces an uncertain path forward, as efforts to reconcile the factions have so far failed to produce a lasting resolution.
