Baruwa Ousts MC Oluomo, Takes Over NURTW Secretariat

A fresh twist has emerged in the leadership crisis rocking the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), as Tajudeen Baruwa on Monday March 23, assumed control of the Union’s National Secretariat in Abuja, effectively displacing Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo.

Global Mirror News gathered that Baruwa’s takeover followed a series of court rulings affirming his position as the legitimate President of the Union.

Addressing Journalists shortly after reclaiming the secretariat, Baruwa stated that his actions were backed by judgments from both the National Industrial Court and the Court of Appeal. He explained that the Union had earlier notified the Police, attaching court documents to facilitate the enforcement of the rulings.

However, he expressed dissatisfaction with what he described as a lack of cooperation from security authorities, which led to a renewed notice declaring the Union’s intention to resume operations at the secretariat.

According to him, the move was carried out peacefully and strictly in compliance with the law.

“We are not here to cause trouble. This is about reclaiming what rightfully belongs to us based on valid court judgments,” Baruwa said.

He added that despite waiting for nearly two years for compliance with the court orders, the opposing faction failed to vacate the premises, prompting Monday’s action.

Baruwa also alleged that one of his supporters was attacked during the process and is currently receiving medical attention, though he maintained that the situation remained under control.

In a similar vein, the Union’s General Secretary, Suleiman Musa, reiterated that all due processes were followed, including prior notification to the Police.

“We informed the authorities that we would be resuming at our office in line with the court’s directive. The presence of the media today is important so the public can witness what is happening,” Musa said.

Global Mirror News reports that the leadership tussle intensified after Baruwa opposed the emergence of MC Oluomo as President of the Union.

Court documents indicate that the National Industrial Court, in an earlier ruling, recognised Baruwa as the duly elected president. This decision was subsequently upheld by the Court of Appeal in a judgment delivered on November 8, 2024.

The appellate court dismissed an appeal filed by rival claimants, describing it as lacking merit, and affirmed the lower court’s decision validating Baruwa’s leadership.

Despite the latest development, Baruwa signaled openness to reconciliation, insisting that the Union remains committed to lawful conduct and unity.