A Lagos Chief Magistrate Court has remanded Ganiyu Oyedepo, popularly known as Koko Zaria, a chieftain of the National Union of Road Transport Workers in Lagos State, in prison custody over the alleged assault of veteran Nollywood actor Alhaji Ade Adele, also known as Baba Lawori.
Oyedepo was arraigned on charges including conspiracy, assault occasioning harm, and conduct likely to cause a breach of the public peace. He pleaded not guilty to the allegations. Chief Magistrate B. Sonuga ordered his remand in Nigerian Correctional Service custody pending the perfection of his bail terms. The case was adjourned to October 29 for mention.
According to the prosecutor from the Force Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Department, the incident occurred on June 5, 2024, at Idimu in Lagos. It is alleged that Oyedepo conspired with some associates to assault the actor, during which Lawori sustained injuries to his head from a broken bottle.
The actor had earlier gone public in a viral video, narrating the events at the 2024 Idimu Day celebration and calling for justice. Police confirmed they would investigate the matter following the initial complaint.
This development comes against the backdrop of the influential role played by the National Union of Road Transport Workers in Lagos. The union oversees commercial drivers and motor parks across the state and has long been a key player in the transport sector. Koko Zaria has held executive positions within the Lagos chapter and remains a visible figure in union activities.
Baba Lawori is a veteran Yoruba Nollywood actor known for his comic roles and decades of contributions to the Nigerian film industry.
The National Union of Road Transport Workers has a history of internal rivalries and occasional violence linked to control of motor parks. Such incidents have sometimes raised concerns about public safety and order in parts of Lagos. Union leaders and members often highlight their contributions to organizing workers and supporting livelihoods in a tough economic environment.
Public reactions to the case have been mixed. Some expressed worry about the safety of entertainers and citizens when disputes arise with powerful union figures. Others stressed the importance of due process, noting that the accused has denied the allegations and the matter is still before the court.
Also read: The Lawori, Koko Zaria debacle: Why LASG, police should wade in
Legal observers describe remand decisions in such cases as standard procedure to secure the defendant’s appearance while bail conditions are finalized. The presumption of innocence remains until the court delivers a final verdict.
No official statement has been reported from the NURTW leadership on the latest development. The case continues to draw attention to issues of accountability and the influence of transport unions in urban centers like Lagos.
As proceedings move forward, many will follow the outcome and its potential effects on relations between public figures, union leaders, and law enforcement in the state.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
