The Lagos State Police Command has arrested Samsideen Oladiti, a senior official of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), over allegations of murder and assault. Oladiti, 55, popularly known as ‘Shamelon,’ is linked to two violent incidents on Lagos Island.
Deputy spokesperson Babaseyi Oluseyi said the arrest followed a protest at Sandgrouse Market, where sympathisers of a deceased victim set two of Oladiti’s motorcycles on fire. Police Commissioner Olohundare Jimoh personally led officers to the scene to restore order.
Oluseyi confirmed that Oladiti is now in the custody of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Panti-Yaba for further investigation.
According to the police, on 17 September 2025, Oladiti allegedly attacked a dispatch rider with a helmet and his fists, causing serious injuries. The victim was hospitalized and is receiving medical treatment.
The suspect is also linked to a fatal assault that occurred on 28 August 2025. Police said Oladiti allegedly struck a man repeatedly with a metallic ring, resulting in injuries that led to the victim’s death on 17 September. The body has been sent for autopsy.
The Lagos State Police assured residents that justice would be pursued, urging the public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement. “The Commissioner appeals to residents to remain law-abiding and not take the law into their own hands,” Oluseyi said.
NURTW State Chairman Mustapha Adekunle, known as Sego, dissociated the union from Oladiti’s actions. He emphasized that the union does not condone violence or illegal activity and pledged internal disciplinary action if Oladiti is found guilty.
Adekunle expressed disappointment over Oladiti’s conduct and urged law enforcement to conduct a thorough, impartial investigation. “Once the legal process is complete, he will also face the union’s internal disciplinary procedures,” he said.
The police continue to investigate the cases, while residents are advised to maintain peace and allow the justice system to take its course.