Lagos, Nigeria — The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) is embroiled in a leadership standoff, with legally recognized president Ibikunle Barua Babaleye appealing to President Bola Tinubu for the enforcement of court judgments that affirm his leadership. Babaleye spoke on ARISE News, detailing the ongoing conflict and its implications.
The crisis began in 2023, following the expiration of the tenure of former NURTW president Comrade Ipegunle Barua. Despite a re-election and inauguration, a faction attempted to install another leader in violation of the union’s constitution. Babaleye, representing the loyalist faction, highlighted the court’s validation of Barua’s election and nullification of the caretaker committee’s actions.
Despite these legal affirmations, Barua has encountered substantial obstacles. Babaleye recounted incidents of intimidation and persecution, including the removal of Barua from the premises and a fatality. A March 6 court order to vacate the office within 24 hours remains unexecuted, with Babaleye criticizing the Nigerian police and other security agencies for failing to comply with court orders.
Babaleye accused key government offices, including the President, of not responding to requests for enforcement of the court rulings. He alleged political interference and warned that the lack of resolution could destabilize future NURTW elections, leading to parallel elections and continued conflict.
He called on President Tinubu to act decisively, emphasizing the need for a commitment to the rule of law beyond mere words. Babaleye concluded that the NURTW crisis is a test of Nigeria’s adherence to the rule of law, urging immediate action to restore lawful leadership and safeguard institutional integrity.
Source: arise
