The President of the National Union Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Prof. Tajudeen Baruwa has been released from police detention. Addressing journalists in Abuja on Thursday, Baruwa cautioned union members against making "inflammatory statements that could undermine the union's stability."
Baruwa clarified the events that followed his detention, along with former Lagos State chairman of the union, Tajudeen Agbede, on August 11, 2023. He explained that the police decided to "safeguard" the secretariat in response to plans by certain groups within the union to stage a protest at the national secretariat located in Garki 2, Abuja, following his arrest.
"We are calling on our members across the states to be calm, peaceful, and law-abiding in their daily activities," said Baruwa, encouraging members to prioritize the union's interests above personal matters. "We want to assure you that the matter is being addressed and it will soon be resolved."
Baruwa appealed to all members to remain lawful and avoid any behavior that could disrupt public peace. He stressed that the union has maintained peace over the years and would not tolerate any threat to its track record and successes.
Expressing his gratitude, Baruwa hailed the Nigeria Labour Congress for their swift intervention. "We want to use this medium to express our appreciation to the Nigerian Labour Congress, our members at the state councils, and branches for their support and intervention on the issue," he added.