The heartbreaking story of a Nigerian cab driver fatally shot in Philadelphia during an early morning pickup, sparking calls for justice and driver safety reform.
Tragedy Strikes Outside Hookah Lounge
Philadelphia, PA – A tragic incident has shaken both the Nigerian and local Philadelphia communities, as 77-year-old Nigerian Uber driver, Olatunji W. Bolaji, was shot and killed in the early hours of Wednesday, April 15th, outside a hookah lounge in Philadelphia.
Bolaji, a Norristown, Pennsylvania resident originally from Nigeria, was working his shift as a cab driver for Uber when he was gunned down during an altercation that erupted just as he arrived to pick up a passenger.
Deadly Encounter Caught Police Off Guard
According to Philadelphia Police Chief Inspector Scott Small, the incident occurred around 2:00 a.m. as Bolaji pulled up outside the lounge. Two armed men suddenly emerged from a parked Jeep Grand Cherokee with Massachusetts license plates and opened fire on Bolaji’s vehicle.
The Uber driver was shot in the head while his 22-year-old male passenger sustained gunshot wounds to the arm, leg, and abdomen. Despite his injuries, Bolaji managed to drive a short distance before crashing. Emergency responders declared him dead at the scene.
Passenger in Critical Condition, May Hold Key Details
The wounded passenger was rushed to a hospital and remains in critical condition. Authorities are hopeful that he will survive and assist in the investigation.
Early indications suggest that the suspects had a confrontation with the passenger prior to Bolaji’s arrival, leading investigators to believe the passenger may have been the intended target.
“The evidence suggests there was a physical altercation before the shooting,” said Chief Inspector Small. “We believe the shooters may have been targeting someone in the vehicle.”
Police Launch Manhunt, Offer $20,000 Reward
Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing leads to identify and capture the assailants, who fled the scene in the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Surveillance footage from nearby buildings is being reviewed, and a $20,000 reward is being offered for any information that leads to an arrest.
“This was a brutal and senseless act of violence that took the life of a hardworking, innocent man,” said Small. “We are doing everything possible to bring these criminals to justice.”
Bolaji Remembered as Devoted Father and Immigrant Hero
Originally from Nigeria, Olatunji Bolaji was described by family and friends as a devoted father, loving partner, and a man who worked tirelessly to support his loved ones.
He had moved to the United States seeking a better life and had been working as an Uber driver for several years.
“My father was a kind soul. He drove a cab not just to earn a living, but because he loved meeting people,” said one of his children. “He didn’t deserve this. We need justice for him and for our family.”
Nigerian Community in Philadelphia Reacts with Grief and Outrage
The Nigerian community in Philadelphia has expressed deep sorrow and frustration over Bolaji’s violent death. Community leaders and advocates are calling for increased safety measures for immigrant workers, especially those working in high-risk, late-night transportation roles.
“This tragedy highlights the dangers that hardworking immigrants face every day,” said Adebayo Ojo, a Nigerian-American advocate in Philadelphia. “We are heartbroken and demand swift justice for our brother.”
Uber Drivers and Cab Operators Raise Safety Concerns
Bolaji’s death has renewed longstanding concerns about driver safety, particularly for Uber, Lyft, and traditional cab operators who work overnight shifts in cities with high crime rates.
“This is yet another reminder that drivers—especially elder and immigrant drivers—need more protection on the job,” said Maria Jenkins, a spokesperson for a local drivers’ union. “Companies like Uber need to take stronger action when it comes to safeguarding their drivers.”
Advocates have urged companies and city officials to implement safety measures such as in-vehicle panic buttons, real-time location sharing with law enforcement, and stronger collaboration between rideshare platforms and local police departments.
A City Struggling With Rising Violence
Philadelphia has seen a spike in gun violence in recent years, and this incident adds to growing public concern about crime, particularly in areas where nightlife venues operate into the early morning hours.
City officials have pledged to continue investing in public safety initiatives, but for many residents—especially frontline workers like cab drivers—the threat remains ever-present.
Memorial Planned as Community Seeks Justice
As police continue their investigation, Bolaji’s family is preparing to lay him to rest. A memorial service is expected to take place in the coming days, bringing together fellow Nigerian community members, drivers, and supporters to honor his life.
“This should never have happened,” said a family friend. “We just want peace and justice.”
Call for Public Assistance
Philadelphia police are urging anyone who may have seen the shooting or who has information about the suspects or vehicle involved to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously to the Philadelphia Police Department tip line.
