The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) in Lagos State has expressed grief over the tragic death of a 42-year-old e-hailing driver, Yusfat Ayinde, who was brutally stabbed by unidentified attackers on Friday.
Confirming the incident on Monday, the union’s chairman, Jaiyesinmi Azeez, stated that Ayinde was on duty when he fell victim to the attack.
According to Azeez, Ayinde had accepted a ride request through an e-hailing app and proceeded to the designated pickup location, where he was ambushed by a group of criminals.
The assailants fatally stabbed him before making away with his vehicle.
“Comrade Yusfat Olawale Ayinde was an active member of our union and served as an administrator for a professional chauffeur group in Lagos. He was murdered in brutal attack by unidentified assailants. Our findings indicate that he responded to a ride request through the app, only to be ambushed upon arrival. The attackers stabbed him and fled with his vehicle,” Azeez said.
Reports indicate that his body was later discovered along Agidingbi Road in Ikeja, from where it was transported to the morgue.
Expressing concerns over the safety of drivers in the state, Azeez urged for stronger security measures to protect e-hailing drivers.
He added that the union’s task force had launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Ayinde’s murder.
“The task force is working closely with the deceased’s family and relevant authorities to gather evidence and determine which ride-hailing platform was used for the request. Efforts are underway to track down the perpetrators and bring them to justice,” he stated.
Azeez further noted that the union was discussing the implementation of additional security measures for e-hailing drivers, such as emergency response systems and heightened surveillance in high-risk areas.
“The union remains committed to supporting Ayinde’s family during this difficult time. Our task force will continue working with law enforcement to ensure justice is served and to prevent similar tragedies in the future,” he concluded.
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