In a landmark decision, the Appeal Court in Abuja has reaffirmed Alhaji Tajudeen Ibikunle Baruwa as the legitimate President of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), thereby dismissing the challenge posed by Musiliu Ayinde Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, and his supporters.
The National Industrial Court sacked MC Oluomo on March 11, 2024, declaring Tajudeen Baruwa the rightful leader of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
This decision was reaffirmed by the Appeal Court in Abuja, which upheld Baruwa’s presidency and rendered MC Oluomo’s election null and void.
Notably, MC Oluomo’s faction, led by Alhaji Najeem Usman Yasin and Alhaji Tajudeen Agbede, had appealed against the judgment but ultimately failed to persuade the appellate court.
Consequently, a three-member panel comprising Justices Hamma Akawu Barka, Nnamdi Dimgba, and Asmau Ojuolape Akanbi delivered a unanimous judgment, deeming the appeal “lacking in merit.”
The panel subsequently confirmed Baruwa’s election as NURTW president and upheld the previous ruling by the National Industrial Court.
According to the court, “The evidence before the court clearly establishes Baruwa as the elected president of the NURTW,” emphasizing that no legal grounds existed to overturn the decision.
In a significant financial repercussion, the court ordered MC Oluomo’s faction to pay ₦100,000 in damages to Baruwa and his supporters.
This decision brings an end to months of legal battles over the leadership of the NURTW, paving the way for Baruwa to assume his role without further contention.
However, the response from MC Oluomo’s camp to this definitive judgment is still pending.
