Security agencies have cordoned off the national secretariat of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Abuja amid an escalating leadership dispute within the union.
Earlier today, leader of one faction, Tajudeen Baruwa, was reportedly arrested after attempting to take over the secretariat from the faction led by Musiliu Akinsanya, also known as MC Oluomo.
Speaking to journalists following the takeover attempt, Baruwa said his actions were in compliance with judicial orders in his favor and that the union had formally notified the Nigeria Police Force of its intention to reclaim the secretariat, attaching relevant court judgments.
The new NURTW chairman Baruwa was addressing the press on what happened this morning with MC Oluomo being sacked and how he won at the court and then he started hearing sounds that feels like gunshots
pic.twitter.com/lyqDJ6En9k https://t.co/nNElDt49qv
— Emma ik Umeh (Tcee )🇳🇬 (@emmaikumeh) March 23, 2026
However, personnel from the Nigerian Army, Nigeria Police Force, Immigration Service, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS) have now sealed off the premises, barring entry to members and visitors.
🚨 BREAKING: Police arrest NURTW chairman Tajudeen Baruwa in Abuja despite court recognition. Baruwa arrived at the secretariat to assume control from MC Oluomo, but the situation escalated gunshots were fired, leaving a supporter injured. pic.twitter.com/e3H8z1T0Bj
— Naija360 (@Naija360_) March 23, 2026
The picture of MC Oluomo was torn apart by Baruwa supporters after they won in Court today pic.twitter.com/62l4SJoOxy
— Chief Ikukuoma (@IkukuomaC) March 23, 2026
Eyewitnesses said the deployment of armed personnel briefly drew supporters from both factions, who were later dispersed. The standoff underscores growing concerns about potential violence as the protracted dispute continues between Baruwa and Akinsanya’s factions.
Security agencies remained stationed around the secretariat at press time, and there is no indication of when normal activities will resume.
🚨 BREAKING: Baruwa is back! 😳 MC Oluomo has been officially sacked as NURTW National President. The streets are buzzing… and the tea is HOT! 😆🔥 pic.twitter.com/bfFHaiYFR8
— Naija360 (@Naija360_) March 23, 2026
