Gunshots reported in Abuja as NURTW factions clash

Gunshots reported in Abuja as NURTW factions clash

There were gunshots in the Garki area of the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, on Tuesday during a clash between two factions of the National Union of Road Transport Workers over the occupation of the union’s national secretariat.

The clash reportedly broke out when supporters of Tajudeen Baruwa faction marched towards the union’s national headquarters currently occupied by the Tajudeen Agbede-backed group.

A report by The PUNCH said Baruwa had claimed he sought the intervention of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Labour Congress to resolve the situation, without success.

“We shall henceforth not hesitate to defend our mandate with the last drop of our blood,” Baruwa was quoted as saying.

But Agbede accused Baruwa of trying to force himself on the union members after the expiration of his four-year tenure.

Agbede enjoys the support of Lagos leader of the union, Musiliu Akinsanya popularly called MC Oluomo Lagos, and other South-West leaders.

It could not be ascertained the number of casualties in the clash as of the time of filing this report.

However, eyewitnesses said the transport union members fired several gunshots in the air during the conflict, which heightened tension in the area.