POLICE DETAIN LAGOS NURTW OFFICIAL ‘SHAMELON’ OVER MURDER, ASSAULT

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By: Sefiu Ajape

The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a senior official of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Lagos, Samsideen Oladiti, popularly known as “Shamelon,” over allegations of murder and the assault of a dispatch rider.

According to reports, the 55-year-old was linked to two violent incidents on Lagos Island, one involving murder and the other, a brutal attack that left a dispatch rider hospitalised.

In a statement on X, the Deputy Public Relations Officer of the Lagos State Police Command, Babaseyi Oluseyi, said Commissioner of Police, Olohundare Jimoh, led officers to the Sandgrouse Market following a protest sparked by the death of one victim.

He wrote, “Following news of the death, sympathisers of the deceased mobilised and staged a violent protest at the suspect’s office in Sandgrouse Market, Lagos Island, setting two motorcycles belonging to the suspect ablaze and causing unrest in the area.

“The Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, Olohundare Jimoh, personally led police personnel to the scene.

“He swiftly restored calm, prevented further breakdown of law and order, and assured residents that the suspect is in custody and will be promptly prosecuted after investigations are concluded.”

Oluseyi confirmed that Oladiti has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Panti-Yaba, for further interrogation.

“The suspect is currently in the custody of the SCID, Panti-Yaba, for discreet investigation,” he added.

Giving details of the cases, Oluseyi said, “On 17th September 2025 at about 3:00pm, the suspect allegedly attacked a dispatch rider on Lagos Island, using a helmet and fists to inflict serious bodily injury (on him). The victim (dispatch rider) was rushed to hospital, placed on oxygen, and is currently receiving medical treatment.”

He further revealed that the suspect was also linked to another violent assault in August that led to the death of a man.

“On 18th September 2025, at about 11:00 am, another complaint was lodged against the same suspect in connection with an incident that occurred on 28th August 2025.

“During the altercation, the suspect allegedly used a metallic ring to repeatedly strike a man on the head and face, inflicting severe injuries. Despite medical intervention, the victim was confirmed dead by a doctor on 17th September 2025. His body has since been deposited in the mortuary for autopsy,” Oluseyi stated.

Assuring the public of justice, the police spokesperson wrote, “The Lagos State Police Command wishes to assure members of the public that justice will be diligently pursued in all the cases against the suspect.

“Jimoh further appeals to residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and not to take the law into their own hands. He enjoins them to cooperate fully with the police in the ongoing investigations.”

Meanwhile, the NURTW State Chairman, Mustapha Adekunle, popularly known as Sego, distanced the union from Oladiti’s alleged actions.

In his words, “NURTW does not condone violence or any unlawful activity.”

Adekunle added that though he once trusted Oladiti’s loyalty, the incident had left him “bitter and disappointed.”

“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 said.

He also warned union members against lawlessness, stressing that loyalty or closeness to him would not shield anyone from facing consequences.