The e-hailing transport community in Lagos is in mourning following the gruesome murder of a 42-year-old Uber driver, Yusfat Ayinde, who was brutally stabbed to death by unidentified assailants on Friday. The Lagos State chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of one of its members, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures for ride-hailing drivers in the state.
Ambushed and Murdered While on Duty
According to Jaiyesinmi Azeez, chairman of the union, Ayinde was actively engaged in his job when the tragic incident occurred. He had received a ride request via an e-hailing app and proceeded to the designated pickup location, unaware that he was walking into a deadly ambush.
Eyewitness accounts and preliminary investigations suggest that upon his arrival at the pickup spot, a group of hoodlums attacked and fatally stabbed him before making away with his vehicle.
Azeez, while confirming the incident, stated: “Comrade Yusfat Olawale Ayinde was an esteemed member of our union and an admin of a professional chauffeurs’ body in Lagos. His life was cut short in a brutal attack by unidentified assailants. After accepting a ride request through the e-hailing app, he was ambushed, viciously stabbed, and robbed of his vehicle. His remains were later discovered dumped along Agindigbi Road in Ikeja before being transported to the morgue.”
Union Demands Justice and Increased Security for Drivers
The union has raised concerns over the growing threat to the safety of e-hailing drivers and has called for urgent interventions to curb these incidents. The union’s task force, in collaboration with Ayinde’s family and relevant authorities, has launched an investigation to determine the app through which the ride request was made and gather vital evidence that could help track down the perpetrators.
Azeez highlighted that efforts are being intensified to ensure that justice is served, stating: “The task force is working closely with law enforcement agencies to enhance investigative efforts and utilize technological tools in identifying and apprehending the assailants.”
He further disclosed that discussions are underway regarding the implementation of additional security protocols for e-hailing drivers. These measures may include an emergency response system and increased surveillance in high-risk areas to prevent such tragic incidents in the future.
Previous Cases Highlighting a Disturbing Trend
This unfortunate event is not an isolated case, as similar incidents have been reported in Lagos in recent months. On January 12, the Lagos State Police Command arrested a 21-year-old US returnee, David Segun, and his accomplices for allegedly murdering an Uber driver in the Obalende area of Lagos. The Commissioner of Police, Ishola Olanrewaju, revealed that Segun, along with Emeka Akwara (19), Samuel Ariori (21), and Lukman Ariori (19), had ordered a ride from Chevron in Lekki to Obalende at midnight on January 9. Upon reaching a secluded area, they allegedly robbed and fatally stabbed the driver multiple times in the neck before fleeing.
Urgent Call for Government Intervention
The recent spate of attacks on ride-hailing drivers has sparked widespread concern within the transport sector, with many calling on the Lagos State Government and security agencies to take decisive action. Stakeholders argue that stricter regulations, improved security technology, and prompt law enforcement responses are necessary to deter criminals from targeting ride-hailing drivers.
Meanwhile, the union has pledged unwavering support to Ayinde’s family and assured that all efforts will be made to ensure they receive justice. Azeez reiterated: “This is a devastating loss, and we stand in solidarity with his family. The Lagos State Task Force will leave no stone unturned in ensuring that the culprits are brought to book and that drivers can work without fear for their lives.”
As investigations continue, the Lagos ride-hailing community remains on edge, hoping for swift justice and concrete security measures to safeguard its members from such tragic fates.
