Lagos Police Arrest NURTW Leader Over Alleged Murder, Assault

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a senior official of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Shamsideen Adio, popularly known as “Shameleon”, over allegations of assault and murder.

Adio, 55, was taken into custody following two separate complaints filed against him. Police said he is currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti–Yaba, as detectives intensify investigations.

According to police spokesperson Babaseyi Oluseyi, the first incident involved an attack on a dispatch rider on Lagos Island, where Adio allegedly used a helmet and his fists to inflict serious injuries.

The rider is said to be on oxygen and receiving intensive medical care.

The second case, reported on August 28, 2025, accused Adio of striking another man with a metallic ring during a fight, causing repeated injuries to the victim’s head and face.

Despite receiving treatment, the man died on September 17, 2025. His body has since been deposited at a morgue for autopsy.

The news of the victim’s death sparked outrage on Lagos Island. Enraged residents reportedly stormed Adio’s office at the Sandgrouse Market, setting ablaze two motorcycles believed to belong to him.

To forestall further violence, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, ordered the deployment of mobile policemen, tactical squads, and regular operatives to the troubled area.

Authorities say Adio remains in custody and will face prosecution once investigations are completed.

The Police have also appealed for calm, urging residents to allow due process to take its course.

“The Command is committed to ensuring justice in this case. We will not allow anyone to take laws into their own hands,” Oluseyi assured.