What began as a forceful move to take control of a union office in Abuja quickly spiralled into chaos, ending with multiple arrests and injuries. The Nigeria Police Force in the FCT has confirmed the arrest of Tajudeen Baruwa and six others following a dramatic takeover attempt at the National Secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
Baruwa, who claims to be the rightful president of the union, had earlier stormed the secretariat with his supporters, pushing out loyalists of Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo. He reportedly justified the move by citing court rulings he believes back his position.
Police spokesperson Josephine Adeh said officers responded swiftly after receiving a distress call around 7:00 a.m., reporting that a large group -said to be about 300 people – had invaded the premises armed with dangerous weapons.
A police team led by Isyaku Sharu was immediately deployed to restore order. Early findings revealed that the group attempted to enforce a court decision on their own, without the presence of authorised court officials.
Tensions escalated when opposing members resisted the move, leading to a violent clash. One person suffered severe machete injuries to the neck and was rescued by officers, while several others were injured and taken to the hospital.
Seven suspects, including Baruwa, were arrested at the scene and have since been arraigned before a Magistrate’s Court in Wuse Zone 2.
The police also dismissed claims circulating online that officers fired gunshots during the incident, describing such reports as false and misleading.
Authorities say calm has now returned to the area, but the incident highlights the deepening leadership crisis within the NURTW, as rival factions continue to battle for control amid ongoing legal and internal disputes.
