NURTW Boss, Koko Zaria Remanded In Prison For Assaulting Actor Lawori

A Chief Magistrate’s Court in Lagos has ordered the detention of Ganiyu Oyedepo, a well-known leader of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), popularly known as Koko Zaria, in prison.

Koko Zaria is accused of assaulting veteran Yoruba actor, Lawori, in a case deemed to pose a serious threat to the actor’s life.

Lawori raised the alarm on social media following the alleged attack by the Lagos NURTW boss whose real name is Ganiyu Oyedepo.

In a viral video posted on his Instagram page in July, Lawori recounted the incident, which he said occurred on Tuesday, June 25, 2024, during the Idimu Day event.

Following the actor’s outcry, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, assured the public on his official X page that justice would be served.

On Thursday, August 5, 2024, Chief Magistrate B. Sonuga ordered Koko Zaria’s remand after he was brought before the court on charges of conspiracy, assault causing harm, and conduct likely to disturb public peace.

The prosecutor, Morufu Animashaun, from the legal department of FCIID, Alagbon, informed the court that Oyedepo, along with some of his associates, attacked Adele at Idimu on June 5, 2024, causing him injuries, including a head wound inflicted with a bottle.

The charges violate sections 411, 173, and 168 (l)(d) of the Criminal Law Ch. C17, Vol. 3, Laws of Lagos State, with punishments outlined under section 168 (2).

The specific charges against Oyedepo include conspiring to commit felony assault on June 25, 2024, and procuring an accomplice to injure Alhaji Ade Adele with a broken bottle.

Koko Zaria pleaded not guilty to the allegations. His defense team, led by S. Bello and S. O. Ajetomobi, argued for bail, stating that the charges are bailable. They requested bail on the most favorable terms.

After hearing the arguments, Chief Magistrate Sonuga granted Oyedepo bail at N2 million with two sureties of equal value. The sureties must have a clean record, show evidence of means of livelihood, and reside within the court’s jurisdiction. They must also present proof of three years of tax payments and have their addresses verified by the court.

The case was adjourned to October 29 for mention, and Koko Zaria was remanded in the Nigerian Correctional Services custody until bail conditions are met.

KanyiDaily recalls that actress, Awele Odita recently responded to a claim made by the father of her child, Koko Zaria, during an interview.