The Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON) has dismissed reports of a leadership crisis in its Lagos State chapter, describing the claims as false, malicious and unauthorised.

In a statement issued by the union’s National Spokesperson, Comrade Jossy Adaraniwon, AUATON specifically disowned an online report, insisting that it does not reflect the union’s position.

The union reaffirmed resolutions reached by its National Executive Council (NEC) at its meeting on April 24, 2026, maintaining that Comrade Jaiyesimi Azeez remains the duly recognised Chairman of the Lagos State chapter.

According to the statement, the NEC has neither suspended nor removed Azeez, who continues to perform his duties as the Lagos State chairman.

AUATON also reiterated that the NEC suspended Comrade Kolawole Aina as the South-West Zonal Chairman with immediate effect pending investigations into alleged acts of insubordination and unauthorised publications.

It further stated that Comrade David Nosa was suspended for conduct considered detrimental to the unity and progress of the union, while the suspension of Comrade Tosin Akindele over alleged gross misconduct and actions capable of bringing the union into disrepute remains in force.

The union said the disciplinary measures were taken to protect its integrity and prevent factionalism, insubordination and what it described as “divide-and-rule tactics” allegedly being exploited by app-based transport platforms.

AUATON cautioned Aina against what it described as the continued spread of misinformation and the impersonation of the union, warning that such actions undermine reconciliation efforts being facilitated by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.

The union warned that failure to desist could attract further disciplinary measures and legal action in line with its constitution.

It also called the attention of the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS) to activities it said could threaten public peace and destabilise the union.

The union reaffirmed that it remains united under the leadership of its National President, Comrade Damola Adeniran, stressing that any vote of no confidence, removal or leadership announcement made outside the NEC lacks constitutional backing and is therefore null and void.

AUATON urged journalists and media organisations to verify information with its National Spokesperson before publication to avoid spreading misinformation.

The union also appealed to members nationwide to disregard what it described as fake reports and remain committed to its objectives of securing decent work, fair remuneration and the right to collective bargaining for app-based transport workers.

“AUATON will not be distracted. We are building a union that meets International Labour Organisation (ILO) standards for platform workers, and we need every driver to stand together in unity,” the statement said.