The Lagos State Police Command has launched a manhunt for the gunmen who killed the Organising Secretary of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) in Lagos, Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Toba Ijaya.
Ajiboye was shot by unidentified assailants on Ikorodu Road while returning home from his childhood neighbourhood in Fadeyi. The attackers reportedly opened fire on his white vehicle, riddling its windscreen and body with bullets.
He was rushed to St. Nicholas Hospital on Lagos Island, where doctors later confirmed him dead.
Following the confirmation of his death on Tuesday, tension erupted around the hospital as grieving supporters reportedly prevented police officers from taking custody of his body, leading to a confrontation with security personnel.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Lagos State Police Command, CSP Abimbola Adebisi, said investigations had commenced and security had been reinforced across strategic locations in the state.
“Investigations are underway to apprehend the perpetrators, and the Command has also deployed personnel to strategic areas to maintain peace and order,” Adebisi said.
Earlier reports had suggested that Ajiboye and other occupants of the vehicle survived the attack with gunshot injuries, but subsequent updates confirmed that the union official later died from his wounds.
Reacting to the killing, Lagos State NURTW Chairman, Mustapha Adekunle, popularly known as Sego, described Ajiboye as a loyal ally, dependable friend and committed union leader whose death was a painful loss.
In a tribute shared on social media, Adekunle said Ajiboye was “more than an ally,” describing him as a pillar of TeamSego and SegoNation.
“The news of Comrade Toba Ajiboye’s sudden passing has left me profoundly saddened and heartbroken. It is hard to accept the loss of such a loyal, reliable and dedicated ally,” he wrote.
He added: “Comrade Toba Ajiboye was more than an ally; he was a trusted friend, a man of unwavering loyalty and commitment, and a true pillar of TeamSego and SegoNation. His friendship, steadfast support and selfless dedication to the union over the years will always be remembered.”