Toba Ajiboye, Organising Secretary of the Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), was buried Tuesday in Ketu, Lagos, following his death from gunshot wounds sustained in an attack on Sunday evening. Unidentified gunmen opened fire on his vehicle in the Fadeyi area while he was leaving after visiting childhood friends, according to sources close to the family. Ajiboye was rushed to a hospital but died the next morning despite treatment. Three other occupants of the vehicle also sustained serious gunshot injuries and remained hospitalized, a union member confirmed.
Videos and photographs shared online showed large crowds at the burial, with mourners expressing grief as the slain union official was laid to rest. Lagos State Police Command spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi confirmed the incident, stating that one person had died and that investigations were ongoing to apprehend the attackers. The police have launched a manhunt, though the motive for the shooting remains unknown.
NURTW Lagos Chairman Mustapha Adekunle, known as Sego, described Ajiboye as a loyal ally, trusted friend, and committed union leader in a Facebook tribute. He praised Ajiboye's unwavering support and dedication to the union, calling him a pillar of "TeamSego and SegoNation." Online reactions to the killing have been mixed, with some honoring him as a community benefactor while others referenced past controversies linked to transport union politics in Lagos.
The police have opened an investigation but have not yet identified the attackers or their motive, even as three victims remain in hospital. This uncertainty leaves the union members and the public without clarity on whether the attack was targeted or linked to broader security issues in the area. The lack of immediate answers also contrasts with public statements of loss from union leadership, which treat the death as a personal and organisational blow.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
