The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned Samsideen Oladiti, a senior official of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) popularly known as Shamelon, before an Ebute Metta Magistrates’ Court over allegations of murder.
Oladiti, aged 55, was brought before the court following his arrest in connection with the death of a dispatch rider who reportedly succumbed to injuries sustained during a violent confrontation on Lagos Island.
According to a statement issued by the Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Babaseyi Oluseyi, the incident unfolded after an altercation between the NURTW chieftain and the rider. Investigations revealed that Oladiti allegedly used a crash helmet and his fists to brutally assault the victim. The injuries inflicted during the confrontation proved fatal, leading to his arraignment on charges of murder.
Background of the Case
Police sources disclosed that the fatal confrontation was not an isolated occurrence. Oladiti, a well-known figure within the Lagos transport union system, had reportedly been linked to earlier disputes and altercations. Records showed that he had previously been the subject of another complaint stemming from an incident on August 28, 2025, though details of that matter were not fully disclosed to the public.
The police spokesperson noted that the repeat nature of the allegations raised concerns about his history of violent behavior, a pattern that law enforcement authorities said required urgent judicial attention.
Inside the Courtroom
During his arraignment, Oladiti appeared calm as the charges were read out. The prosecuting counsel outlined the allegations, stressing that the attack on the dispatch rider was unprovoked and unnecessarily brutal.
Magistrates handling the matter emphasized the seriousness of the allegations, particularly since the incident led to a loss of life. While the case has been forwarded for further investigation and possible transfer to the High Court, Oladiti is expected to remain in custody until the next hearing.
Public Reaction
News of Oladiti’s arraignment has sparked widespread reactions across Lagos, particularly within transport circles. The NURTW, which has long been dogged by accusations of violence and thuggery, is once again under the spotlight. Many Lagosians expressed concern over the recurring involvement of transport union leaders in violent incidents that often escalate into fatalities.
Human rights advocates have also called for a thorough investigation and speedy trial, stressing that justice must be served not only for the deceased dispatch rider and his family but also as a deterrent to similar acts of violence within the state’s transport system.
Some community voices have argued that the case reflects a deeper problem with the culture of impunity surrounding certain union leaders, who are often perceived to operate above the law. They urged the Lagos State Government and security agencies to work together in sanitizing the transportation sector, which remains critical to the daily lives of millions of residents.
Broader Implications
The incident comes at a time when the Lagos State Government is pushing for reforms within the transportation sector, including stricter regulation of commercial drivers, improved road safety, and closer monitoring of union activities. The case against Oladiti is likely to reignite debates about the role of the NURTW and whether its leadership structure enables or encourages violent conduct among members.
Transport experts have argued that while the NURTW plays a role in organizing commercial transport operations, recurring clashes involving its officials highlight the need for systemic change. They emphasized that unchecked violence by those in leadership positions could undermine public confidence in the sector and threaten the safety of commuters and riders alike.
Next Steps
The Lagos State Police Command has reassured the public of its commitment to ensuring justice is served. Deputy PRO Babaseyi Oluseyi stated that investigators are working to compile all evidence, including eyewitness testimony and forensic reports, to strengthen the case against the accused.
Meanwhile, the family of the deceased dispatch rider has called for justice, with relatives demanding that authorities prosecute the matter to its logical conclusion. They described the victim as a hardworking individual whose life was cut short in a needless and violent manner.
As the case proceeds, all eyes will remain on the judiciary to determine whether Oladiti will be held accountable for the alleged crime. For many Lagos residents, the outcome will serve as a critical test of how the state handles violent offenses involving influential union figures.
