Chaos erupted in Garki, Federal Capital Territory, as two factions of the National Union of Road Transport Workers clashed on Sapele Crescent, Garki II, Abuja. This ongoing dispute within the NURTW requires urgent government intervention to maintain order, especially in the nation’s capital.
The conflict arose when supporters of NURTW President Tajudeen Baruwa attempted to reclaim the union’s national headquarters from the Lagos Park Management Committee, led by Tajudeen Agbede.
Baruwa sought intervention from the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Labour Congress, but without success. He emphasized his determination to defend his mandate legally, warning that any other action could lead to chaos. Baruwa accused former NURTW leaders, Najeem Yasin and Agbede, of holding unauthorized meetings with past union leaders.
He called on the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, and Director General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, to step in, alleging police favoritism towards the Lagos Park Management Committee.
Gunshots were reportedly fired during the conflict, escalating tensions in the area. The exact number of casualties remains uncertain.
The FCT Police declined to comment, referring inquiries to the Force Headquarters. However, the Force PRO, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, did not respond to our correspondent’s queries.