The Lagos State Police Command apprehended Samsideen Oladiti, a high-ranking official of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), on allegations of murder and aggravated assault. Known as “Shamelon,” the 55-year-old suspect is linked to two violent incidents on Lagos Island, one resulting in death and the other leaving a dispatch rider severely injured. The arrest followed a public outcry and protest at the Sandgrouse Market, where Oladiti’s office is located. Protestors, sympathizers of the deceased victim, set two of Oladiti’s motorcycles ablaze, leading to unrest in the area. Lagos State Police Commissioner, Olohundare Jimoh, personally intervened to quell the escalating tension and restore order. He assured the public that Oladiti was in custody and would face prosecution following a thorough investigation.
The first incident, an assault on a dispatch rider, occurred on September 17, 2025. Oladiti allegedly attacked the rider with a helmet and his fists, inflicting severe injuries. The victim was hospitalized and required oxygen support. The second, and more serious incident, dates back to August 28, 2025. Oladiti reportedly used a metal ring to repeatedly strike a man in the head and face during an altercation. The victim succumbed to his injuries on September 17, 2025, and his body was transferred to the mortuary for an autopsy. Following his arrest, Oladiti was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti-Yaba for further investigation and processing. The police have assured the public that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted and justice will be served.
The Lagos State Police Command appealed for calm and cooperation from the public, urging residents to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. They emphasized their commitment to ensuring justice in both cases against Oladiti. Commissioner Jimoh reiterated the importance of allowing the legal process to unfold and cooperating with the ongoing investigations. The police statement served to reassure the public that the situation was under control and that due process would be followed in bringing the suspect to justice.
Meanwhile, the NURTW distanced itself from Oladiti’s actions. Mustapha Adekunle, the state chairman of the NURTW, also known as Sego, issued a statement condemning Oladiti’s alleged violence. Adekunle expressed his disappointment and betrayal, emphasizing that the union does not condone violence or unlawful activities. While acknowledging a previous relationship of trust with Oladiti, Adekunle stressed that the alleged crimes were unacceptable and would be dealt with accordingly.
Adekunle called upon law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incidents, ensuring that justice is served. He also affirmed that the NURTW would conduct its own internal disciplinary proceedings against Oladiti once the legal process concludes. This dual approach highlights the union’s commitment to both legal accountability and internal discipline. Adekunle’s statement serves to reinforce the message that violence has no place within the NURTW and that members will be held accountable for their actions.
Furthermore, Adekunle issued a stern warning to all NURTW members, emphasizing that loyalty to him or any other union leader would not shield them from the consequences of engaging in unlawful activities. This underscores the union’s commitment to upholding the law and maintaining order within its ranks. The chairman’s message aimed to deter future acts of violence and reinforce the principle that all members are subject to the law, regardless of their position or connections within the NURTW. The combined efforts of the police and the NURTW leadership aim to ensure accountability and prevent future incidents of this nature.
