OFFICIAL PRESS STATEMENT BY THE VICE CHAIRMEN OF THE ROAD TRANSPORT EMPLOYERS ASSOCIATION OF NIGERIA (RTEAN), LAGOS STATE BRANCH
Date: June 10, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SETTING THE RECORD STRAIGHT: RESPONSE TO FALSE ALLEGATIONS AGAINST ALHAJI SAMSONDEEN ADEPEJU AJALA (KAOSARA)
The attention of the Vice Chairmen, stakeholders, and members of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Lagos State Branch, has been drawn to a series of allegations and misinformation being circulated by certain disgruntled individuals led by Deola, Epo, and their associates against the Chairman of RTEAN Lagos State, Alhaji Samsondeen Adepeju Ajala (KAOSARA).
We consider it necessary to set the record straight and provide members and the general public with factual information regarding these allegations.
Inclusiveness and Unity Under KAOSARA's Leadership
The allegation that Alhaji Ajala promotes tribalism is completely false and misleading. Since assuming office, he has fostered an atmosphere of unity, inclusiveness, and peaceful coexistence among all ethnic groups within the association.
Today, Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and members from other ethnic backgrounds work together harmoniously within the Lagos State Branch without fear, discrimination, or marginalization.
Allegations of Intimidation and Threats
Claims that Alhaji Ajala has engaged in bullying or intimidation are baseless. As a law-abiding leader, his administration has always relied on lawful institutions whenever disputes arise.
Where necessary, the Nigeria Police Force was approached to investigate allegations of misconduct and activities capable of disrupting the peace of the association. Seeking legal intervention cannot reasonably be described as intimidation.
The Truth About Suspensions
Contrary to the allegations being circulated, Alhaji Ajala did not suspend Deola, Epo, or their associates. These individuals voluntarily distanced themselves from the association after their efforts to influence members toward a political agenda failed.
Subsequently, attempts were allegedly made to destabilize the existing leadership structure through unlawful means, including efforts to forcefully take control of the association's Secretariat. These efforts were resisted by members who remain committed to constitutional leadership and democratic processes.
Clarification on the ₦100,000 Contribution Initiative
The allegations that funds were collected in the name of any "incoming governor" are entirely false and unsupported by evidence.
The ₦100,000 contribution initiative was designed to support developmental programs aimed at positioning Lagos RTEAN to benefit from the Federal Government's Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) transportation policy. The objective was to create opportunities that would provide members with access to more affordable transportation fuel alternatives.
It is important to note that some individuals who now criticize the initiative were directly involved in collecting contributions from certain chapel chairmen but allegedly failed to remit such funds appropriately.
Transparency in Revenue and Ticketing Operations
The recent claims regarding unauthorized ticketing appear to be an attempt to distract members from the real issues confronting the association.
Under the leadership of Alhaji Ajala, financial and ticketing operations within Lagos State have been conducted transparently and accountably. Members have witnessed a more open system of administration than ever before.
Addressing Claims of Violence
Despite repeated accusations, there is no known criminal conviction, police record, or official finding linking Alhaji Ajala to acts of violence.
Members remain concerned about reported incidents involving external actors and individuals allegedly deployed to create tension within the association's structures and facilities. These concerns deserve proper investigation by relevant authorities.
Concerns Regarding National Leadership and Financial Accountability
Many members across Lagos State and the South-West region have expressed concerns regarding the administration of the association at the national level.
Among these concerns are:
Excessive financial remittances from state branches to the national headquarters.
Limited resources available for state-level administration and member welfare.
Questions regarding the management of welfare and cooperative funds.
Concerns raised by members regarding previous vehicle acquisition schemes and related financial commitments.
These matters deserve transparent review and accountability in the interest of all members nationwide.
Deliberate Attempts to Destabilize Lagos State Branch
Members have also expressed concerns regarding decisions affecting the structure and administration of the Lagos State Branch, including the creation of multiple leadership positions and the issuance of conflicting appointments.
Such actions have generated unnecessary confusion and appear capable of undermining the stability, peace, and progress that members currently enjoy in Lagos State.
The reinstatement and appointment of individuals previously sanctioned by the association has further raised questions about consistency, due process, and adherence to constitutional procedures.
Our Position
This matter goes beyond personalities. It concerns transparency, accountability, constitutional governance, and the welfare of thousands of transport workers who depend on this association.
We, the Vice Chairmen of RTEAN Lagos State Branch, reaffirm our confidence in the leadership of Alhaji Samsondeen Adepeju Ajala (KAOSARA).
We acknowledge the peace, inclusiveness, and administrative progress achieved under his leadership and remain committed to protecting the integrity of the association and the interests of its members.
We therefore urge all members to disregard misinformation, remain law-abiding, and continue supporting efforts aimed at strengthening RTEAN Lagos State for the benefit of all.
Signed:
All Vice Chairmen
Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN)
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