Nigeria: Transport Union leader to face trial over death of dispatch rider

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

A leader of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Shamsideen Adio, popularly known as Shameleon, is set to be arraigned on Friday following the death of a dispatch rider in Lagos Island.

The incident happened on September 17, 2025, after a minor clash on Tapa Street. The victim was accused of scratching Adio’s vehicle, which allegedly led to a violent attack by Adio and his associates. Eyewitnesses reported that the rider was repeatedly struck with a helmet and fists until he collapsed. He was rushed to the hospital but later died from his injuries.

The case has drawn strong reactions from the public, with calls for justice. The Lagos State House of Assembly has also intervened, stressing that those responsible must be prosecuted.

The Chairman of the House Committee on Transportation, Adewale Adedeji, condemned the attack, describing it as a senseless act that should serve as a lesson. He noted that the victim left home to earn a living but never returned, highlighting the importance of protecting the sanctity of human life.