The Court of Appeal, Abuja Division, has ruled in favor of Alhaji Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa, confirming him as the legally recognized President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
The Court upheld the National Industrial Court’s decision from March 11, 2024, in Suit No. NICN/ABJ/263/2023, which had earlier declared Baruwa as the rightful President of the union.
During a press briefing on Friday, November 15, Baruwa criticized the inauguration of Musiliu Akinsanya, widely known as MC Oluomo, as NURTW President. He described the move as not only laughable but also an insult to the judiciary, as it contradicted both the March 11 and November 8 rulings from the National Industrial Court and Court of Appeal. These rulings had restrained the faction led by Yasin from interfering in the affairs of the Baruwa-led NURTW administration.
Baruwa emphasized that the NURTW is a legally constituted body with a constitution that sets clear guidelines for the election of its officers. He called on the Inspector General of Police and the Attorney General of the Federation to intervene and ensure that the Appeal Court’s decision is enforced to maintain peace, order, and respect for the rule of law.
The Court of Appeal dismissed the appeal filed by Alh. Najeem Usman Yasin, Alh. Tajudeen Agbede, and others, who had challenged the Industrial Court’s recognition of Baruwa as president. The three-member panel of Justices—Hamma Akawu Barka, Nnamdi Dimgba, and Asmau Ojuolape Akanbi—ruled that the appeal lacked merit and affirmed Baruwa as the legitimate leader of the union.
Additionally, the appellate court imposed a fine of N100,000 against the appellants, who are supporters of MC Oluomo, in favor of the respondents.
