The Court of Appeal in Abuja has confirmed Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa as the legitimate president of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, (NURTW).
The decision upholds an earlier judgment of the National Industrial Court delivered on March 11, 2024, which recognised Baruwa as the unions president.
A three-member panel comprising Justices Hamma Akawu Barka, Nnamdi Dimgba, and Asmau Ojuolape Akanbi dismissed the appeal filed by Najeem Usman Yasin, Tajudeen Agbede, and others, ruling that the appeal lacked merit. It therefore upheld the industrial courts decision, which validated Baruwas presidency.
The appellate court further awarded N100,000 in costs against the appellants, who are known loyalists of Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo.
At a press conference following the ruling, Baruwa said MC Oluomos self-declared inauguration as NURTW president was an affront on the Judiciary. He stated that the act contravened both the March 11 and November 8 judgments by the National Industrial Court and the Court of Appeal, which had prohibited interference in the operations of the Baruwa-led NURTW executive.
Baruwa said the NURTW operates under a legal framework with a constitution that clearly outlines guidelines for electing its leaders. He urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, and Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) to enforce the courts judgment to ensure compliance and maintain peace and order.
Recall that an election had been held earlier in the week, declaring MC Oluomo as president of the NURTW.
