The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a prominent member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Shamsideen Adio, popularly known as “Shameleon”, over his alleged involvement in two violent crimes, one of assault and another of murder, on Lagos Island.
The 55-year-old suspect is currently in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Panti-Yaba, where investigations into both cases are ongoing, according to a statement issued on Friday by the Command’s Deputy Public Relations Officer, Babaseyi Oluseyi.
In one of the incidents, Adio allegedly assaulted a dispatch rider during a confrontation on Lagos Island. The police said he used a helmet and his fists to inflict severe injuries on the victim, who is currently hospitalised and receiving treatment on oxygen support.
“The Lagos State Police Command has arrested one Samsideen Oladiti, popularly known as ‘Shameleon’, aged 55, in connection with two violent crimes on Lagos Island involving a case of murder and another of assault occasioning harm,” the statement read in part.
In a separate case, the police confirmed that a formal complaint had earlier been filed against Adio over an incident that occurred on August 28, 2025. During an altercation, the suspect allegedly struck another man multiple times on the head and face using a metallic ring, causing severe injuries.
Despite receiving medical attention, the victim died on September 17, 2025. His body has since been deposited in the mortuary pending an autopsy.
News of the man’s death reportedly sparked protests at Adio’s office in Sandgrouse Market, Lagos Island, where sympathisers of the deceased set two of the suspect’s motorcycles ablaze, escalating tension in the area.
In response, the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, led a team comprising mobile police officers, tactical squads, and conventional units to the area to restore order.
He assured residents that the suspect remains in custody and will face prosecution once investigations are complete.
“We appeal to all Lagosians to remain calm and law-abiding. The Command is committed to ensuring justice is served,” CP Jimoh said.
