Hundreds of mourners gathered in Lagos on Tuesday to bid a final farewell to Toba Ajiboye, popularly known as Toba Ijaya, the Organising Secretary of the Lagos State chapter of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), who died after sustaining gunshot wounds in an attack earlier this month.
Toba was attacked on July 12 after suspected gunmen ambushed his vehicle along Ikorodu Road near Fadeyi. Although he was initially rushed for medical treatment, he later died from his injuries on July 14. Three other occupants of the vehicle were also reportedly injured during the attack. Following his death, security was tightened across parts of Fadeyi and neighbouring communities amid fears of possible reprisals, while police continued efforts to identify and arrest those responsible.
His funeral, held in Ketu before his interment in Fadeyi, drew family members, union officials, political associates and residents who came to pay their last respects. One of the most emotional moments of the ceremony came when his young daughter delivered a heartfelt tribute in English, leaving many mourners in tears. Videos from the procession quickly spread across social media, with crowds lining the streets as his body was taken for burial.
Lagos NURTW Chairman Mustapha Adekunle, popularly known as Sego, described Toba as “a trusted friend” and “a true pillar” of the union, praising his loyalty and years of service. Supporters also remembered him for community outreach and his influence within Lagos transport circles.
However, reactions online reflected the complexity of his legacy. While many expressed sympathy for his family and condemned the violence that claimed his life, others argued that the public glorification of transport union figures risks overlooking long-standing concerns about motor park rivalries and political violence associated with some factions.
As investigations continue, authorities have appealed for calm while assuring residents that those behind the deadly attack will be brought to justice. For many at the burial, the focus remained on mourning a man whose death has left a significant void within the Lagos NURTW community, even as broader debates about the role of transport unions continue.
