Police Arraign NURTW Chieftain for Alleged Murder in Lagos

The Lagos State Police Command on Tuesday arraigned a chieftain of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Samsideen Oladiti, popularly known as Shamelon, at the Ebute Metta Magistrate Court 2.

The 55-year-old union leader faces charges linked to the alleged murder of a dispatch rider in Lagos. According to police reports, Oladiti allegedly assaulted the rider during a dispute on Lagos Island, using a helmet and his fists to inflict injuries that later proved fatal.

The Command’s Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Babaseyi Oluseyi, confirmed the arraignment, noting that Oladiti had earlier been arrested following investigations into the case. Police said the incident attracted public attention after videos of the aftermath circulated online, drawing widespread condemnation and calls for justice.

Court Proceedings and Charges

At Tuesday’s proceedings, prosecutors told the court that Oladiti’s actions led directly to the victim’s death, describing the incident as a case of avoidable violence. They urged the court to remand him in custody pending the outcome of further investigations and legal advice from the Lagos State Directorate of Public Prosecutions.

Oladiti, however, pleaded not guilty to the charges. His counsel argued that the case had been sensationalised due to his position within the NURTW, and called for bail, insisting that the defendant would not interfere with investigations.

Magistrate Kemi Ogundare ordered that the case file be transmitted to the Directorate of Public Prosecutions for review. She adjourned the matter to allow prosecutors and defence counsel to present further arguments regarding bail and trial procedures.

The arraignment comes amid growing scrutiny of violent clashes involving transport union leaders across Lagos. Authorities have repeatedly warned that no individual, regardless of position or influence, will be allowed to act above the law.

Public Reactions and Wider Implications

The case has sparked significant reactions both online and offline. Civil society groups and road transport stakeholders have urged the police and judiciary to ensure that justice is not only done but also seen to be done. Some commentators argue that the arraignment could serve as a test case for how seriously authorities intend to handle violent crimes linked to influential figures.

Human rights advocates have also pointed out the vulnerability of commercial motorcyclists and dispatch riders, who are often exposed to harassment and violence while carrying out their work in Lagos. They stress that stronger protections and enforcement measures are needed to safeguard the lives and livelihoods of such workers.

The NURTW itself has faced a series of controversies over the years, ranging from violent disputes among rival factions to allegations of extortion at motor parks. Analysts suggest that cases like Oladiti’s highlight the urgent need for reform within the union and stricter oversight by government regulators.

Despite the arraignment, questions remain over the culture of impunity that many believe has shielded powerful union leaders in the past. Legal experts note that the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the case moves forward effectively or stalls amid legal technicalities.

For now, the family of the deceased dispatch rider continues to seek justice, while the public watches closely to see if the prosecution of an NURTW chieftain marks a shift in how law enforcement deals with violence linked to transport unions in Lagos.