The Lagos State chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria has expressed grief over the tragic murder of a 42-year-old e-hailing driver, Yusfat Olawale Ayinde, who was fatally stabbed by unknown attackers on Friday.
According to The PUNCH, AUATON Lagos chairman, Jaiyesinmi Azeez, who confirmed the incident described the killing as a brutal and senseless attack.
“Comrade Yusfat Olawale Ayinde was a dedicated member of our union and an administrator for a professional chauffeur group in Lagos. He was ambushed after responding to a ride request and was cruelly murdered by unidentified assailants who then stole his vehicle,” Azeez said.
He said, “Comrade Yusfat Olawale Ayinde is our member and the admin of a body of Professional Chauffeur in the state. He was tragically murdered in a brutal attack initiated by unidentified assailants. According to our findings, Ayinde received a ride request through the e-hailing app, and upon arrival at the designated location, he was ambushed by a group of hoodlums who requested him. The assailants fatally stabbed Ayinda and subsequently stole his vehicle.”
It was gathered that the deceased’s remains were dumped along the Agindigbi Road in the Ikeja area of the state from where it was conveyed to the morgue.
However, Azeez expressed concern over the safety of members of the union and advocated increased security measures for drivers in the area.
He added that the union had through its task force initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ayinda’s murder.
He said, “The task force is currently working in collaboration with the family and other authorities to gather evidence and identify the app through which the ride request was made. Efforts are being made to track down the assailants and bring them to justice.
“The task force will coordinate with law enforcement to enhance investigative efforts and leverage technology in tracking the assailants.”
Azeez explained that discussions were underway to implement additional safety protocols for e-hailing drivers, including possible emergency response systems and increased surveillance in high-risk areas.
“The union will continue to support Ayinda’s family and ensure they receive the necessary assistance during this tragic time. The Auaton Lagos State Task Force is committed to ensuring that justice is served and that steps are taken to prevent such incidents in the future. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” he concluded.
