Police in Abuja have arrested Tajudeen Baruwa after he allegedly led members of his faction to forcefully take control of the national secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) during a leadership dispute within the union.
Security sources said the incident occurred at the union’s national headquarters in Abuja, where Baruwa and his supporters reportedly stormed the premises and attempted to assert control amid an ongoing crisis over the leadership of the transport workers’ body. The action prompted a swift response from law enforcement officers, who moved in to restore order and prevent further breakdown of security.
According to the police, Baruwa was taken into custody alongside several supporters following the takeover, which authorities described as unlawful and capable of causing a breach of peace. Officers were deployed to the area to secure the secretariat and prevent clashes between rival factions within the union.
Witnesses said the situation created tension around the building as members loyal to different leaders gathered at the scene, raising fears of possible violence before security operatives intervened. No serious injuries were reported, but police maintained a strong presence to ensure calm.
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The leadership crisis within the NURTW has been ongoing for months, with rival groups laying claim to the control of the union’s national structure. The dispute has led to multiple confrontations in different parts of the country, prompting repeated calls for dialogue and legal resolution.
Police authorities said investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and to identify other individuals who may have been involved in the attempted takeover. They warned that anyone found responsible for acts capable of disturbing public peace would face prosecution.
Union members who spoke after the incident urged the Federal Government and relevant authorities to intervene in the crisis to prevent further escalation, noting that the transport union plays a critical role in the country’s road transport sector.
As of the time of filing this report, police had not announced whether Baruwa would be formally charged, but officials said normal activities at the secretariat have been restored following the deployment of security personnel.
