A 42-year-old Uber driver, Yusfat Ayinde, was killed in Lagos after being attacked by unidentified assailants. His body was later found along Agindigbi Road in the Ikeja area of the state.
The Lagos State chapter of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) confirmed the tragic incident. The union’s chairman, Jaiyesinmi Azeez, said Ayinde was working on Friday evening when he received a ride request through the e-hailing app. Upon reaching the pickup location, he was ambushed by a group of hoodlums.
The attackers fatally stabbed Ayinde and stole his vehicle before fleeing the scene.
“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,” Azeez stated.
His remains were later discovered and transported to the morgue.
Azeez expressed deep concern over the safety of app-based drivers, noting the rising insecurity faced by e-hailing operators. He revealed that the union’s task force had launched an investigation into the incident.
“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,” he said.
He further noted that the task force would work closely with law enforcement agencies to enhance security for drivers and use technology to track the suspects. Discussions are also underway to introduce new safety measures, including 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,” Azeez added.
