- Safiu Kehinde
The Lagos State Chapter’s Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Mustapha Adekunle, popularly known as Sego, has distanced himself from his loyalist and the union’s chieftain, Shamisdeen Adio (Shamelon), who was arrested over the alleged murder and assault.
NPO Reported that the Police had last week arrested Shamisdeen in Lagos Island following a viral video of him and his gang brutalising a man simply identified as Ramon.
According to a post shared on Facebook, Ramon who was on board a commercial tricycle popularly known as Marwa had attempted to plead with Shamsideen on behalf of a tricycle operator who the NURTW chieftain was assaulting.
Ramon’s plea tend to have upset Shamisdeen who, as captured in a viral video, dragged the passenger and physically assaulted.
The man unfortunately died of his injury few days after, sparking outrage among the Lagos Island residents.
More videos of Shamisdeen’s lease of terror on motorists subsequently surfaced online, promptly leading to his arrest.
Meanwhile, the atroticites committed by the notorious hoodlum had led to members of the public calling out the Lagos NURTW Chairman, Mustapha, as Shamisdeen was believed to be one of his boys.
Reacting in a statement issued on Friday, Mustapha admitted that Shamisdeen is one of his loyalists.
He however condemned his actions, stressing that they do not represent the NURTW in any way.
The Lagos NURTW Chairman called for thorough investigation and justice for the deceased and other victims.
“I want to make it clear that all his actions are his own and do not represent the NURTW in any way.
“Anyone who believes otherwise is welcome to bring forward their evidence or submit it to the appropriate law enforcement agencies for proper investigation.
“I urge law enforcement officers to carry out a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure justice is served.
“Once the legal process is complete, he will also face the union’s internal disciplinary procedures. As I have always stated, the NURTW does not condone violence or any unlawful acts.” He wrote.
While commiserating with the family of the deceased, Mustapha urged members of the public to refrain from tagging him to the incident.
He warned other members of the union to desist from any form of assault, stressing he will not support any form of maltreatment or unlawful conduct, no matter their closeness or loyalty.
“Let this serve as a lesson to all our members: no matter their closeness or loyalty, I will not support any form of maltreatment or unlawful conduct. I have always vowed to be a loyal party man and will never act against the party or government.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family of the affected individual and encourage them to reach out to the Lagos State NURTW so we can provide any support within our capacity. I also pray for strength and comfort for them during this difficult time. #Amin
“To the online bloggers and social media users, I truly support and appreciate the important work you do in keeping the public informed.
“However, tagging me in posts linking me to this incident is misleading and unfair, and I respectfully ask that you refrain from doing so.
“The Lagos State NURTW remains committed to the welfare of its members, the rule of law, and the safety of all citizens.” The Lagos NURTW Chairman added.