By Muhammad Mamman
Police have arrested seven individuals following a violent clash linked to a leadership tussle within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja.
The confrontation, which reportedly involved rival factions loyal to Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, and Tajudeen Baruwa, led to heightened tensions among union members and disrupted activities in parts of the city.
Authorities say the arrests were made after security operatives intervened to restore order during the clash. Police officials confirmed that investigations are ongoing and those detained may face prosecution if found culpable.
The unrest comes amid a major shift in the union’s leadership, with Baruwa emerging as president, effectively unseating MC Oluomo, a long-time influential figure within the transport body.
The NURTW, one of Nigeria’s most powerful transport unions, has historically played a significant role not only in regulating commercial transport operations but also in grassroots political mobilisation, making leadership contests highly contested and, at times, volatile.
Analysts say the latest development underscores deep divisions within the union, raising concerns over stability and control of its extensive network across the country.
Security presence has since been reinforced in key areas of Abuja to prevent further violence, while authorities have urged calm among union members as efforts continue to de-escalate the situation.
