Union mourns as task force, police launch investigations into brutal murder
The Lagos State chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria is mourning the tragic death of Yusfat Ayinde, a 42-year-old e-hailing driver who was fatally stabbed by unidentified attackers on Friday evening.
Confirming the incident, the union’s chairman, Jaiyesinmi Azeez, told PUNCH Metro on Monday that Ayinde was ambushed after accepting a ride request through an e-hailing app. “Comrade Yusfat Olawale Ayinde, our member and an admin of the Professional Chauffeur body in Lagos, was murdered by unknown assailants. They ambushed him at the ride’s pickup location, stabbed him, and stole his vehicle,” Azeez said.
Ayinde’s body was later found dumped along Agindigbi Road in Ikeja and has since been transferred to a morgue.
Concerned about the safety of drivers, Azeez called for heightened security and announced that the union’s task force had begun investigations. “Our task force is collaborating with the family and authorities to gather evidence, identify the app used for the ride request, and track down the assailants. We are working with law enforcement to enhance the investigation using technology,” he explained.
The union is also discussing additional safety protocols for drivers, including emergency response systems and increased surveillance in high-risk areas. “We will support Ayinde’s family during this difficult time and ensure justice is served,” Azeez added.
This incident is the latest in a worrying trend of attacks on e-hailing drivers. On January 12, the Lagos State Police Command arrested three young men, including a 21-year-old US returnee, David Segun, for allegedly murdering an Uber driver in the Obalende area.
According to Police Commissioner Ishola Olanrewaju, Segun, along with Emeka Akwara (19), Samuel Ariori (21), and Lukman Ariori (19), ordered a ride from Chevron in Lekki to Obalende at midnight on January 9. Upon reaching a deserted location, the suspects allegedly stabbed the driver multiple times in the neck, robbed him, and fled the scene.
