Violence erupted at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, during the inauguration of the Bus Conductors Association of Nigeria (BCAN).
The attack, carried out by thugs, left several people injured and caused significant property damage.
The assailants, allegedly loyal to Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, stormed the venue shortly after the Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande, had departed. The chaos forced the event to end prematurely.
Eyewitnesses identified Segun Aluwaye, claiming to be the chairman of Berger Park, as the leader of the group. The attackers, armed with machetes, knives, bottles, and sticks, wore caps bearing MC Oluomo’s image. They forcibly entered the hall, disrupting proceedings and chasing away attendees, including government officials and security personnel.
BCAN Chairman, Israel Adeshola, condemned the attack, stating: “They arrived with dangerous weapons, wearing face caps with Oluomo’s picture. They destroyed property and injured many of our members. Miscreants chased away dignitaries and guests, creating panic and havoc.”
The thugs injured several individuals, including security personnel from the police, Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Items such as cameras, chairs, tables, and fans were also vandalised.
The event, intended to address “one chance” crimes in the Federal Capital Territory and establish a database for bus conductors, was described by BCAN as a significant initiative derailed by the violence.
As of the time of reporting, no arrests had been made. However, police vehicles were stationed at the NUJ Secretariat to prevent further disturbances.
BCAN called on President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to investigate the incident and ensure those allegedly responsible, including MC Oluomo, are held accountable.
 FCT Secretariat in Utako, Abuja, during the inauguration of the Bus){kind=link}