By DAYO ADESULU
President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the tragic death of veteran labour leader and human rights activist, Comrade Abiodun Aremu, describing him as a steadfast defender of workers’ rights and a tireless advocate for social justice in Nigeria.
Aremu, a 65-year-old lifelong activist, reportedly died on Sunday evening, October 12, 2025, after being struck by a hit-and-run driver in Ota, Ogun State, around 6 p.m. while crossing the road near his residence. He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors battled to save his life, but he was later confirmed dead.
Final Journey Set for October 23
According to family sources, Comrade Aremu will be buried on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at No. 30, Kabiru Fatoye Street, opposite Alaka Field, Ijako Sugar Bus Stop, along Ifo Road, near the Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway.
His death has sent shockwaves through the labour community, civil society organisations, and the academic sector, where he played a major role in shaping Nigeria’s struggle for justice and equality.
Tinubu: “Aremu Was a Conscience of the People”
In a condolence statement issued on Monday by Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Tinubu extended heartfelt sympathies to Aremu’s family, friends, and comrades, as well as to the broader labour movement and civil society in Nigeria.
The President lauded Aremu’s lifelong dedication to empowering workers and advancing their welfare, describing him as a national figure who gave his life to public service without compromise.
“Aremu was a teacher, an organiser, a conscience of the people. He shaped minds and inspired generations of Nigerians on integrity, justice, and patriotism. The nation has lost a selfless patriot and a tireless fighter for the common good,” Tinubu said.
Tribute to a Courageous Comrade
The President further described the late Aremu as a courageous comrade who remained unwavering in his beliefs, even in the face of intimidation and political adversity.
He praised Aremu’s commitment to the Nigerian worker, recalling his role in various nationwide labour campaigns that sought to protect the rights of teachers, university lecturers, and public servants.
“Comrade Aremu’s legacy will continue to inspire new generations of Nigerian activists who believe in the cause of fairness, social justice, and national unity,” the statement added.
Tinubu also extended his condolences to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), and other civil society organisations, noting that Aremu had been one of their most consistent partners in the collective struggle for a better life for all Nigerians.
A Lifetime of Activism
Until his death, Comrade Abiodun Aremu was known as one of Nigeria’s most outspoken voices for justice, democracy, and workers’ welfare.
He was instrumental in coordinating major civil rights movements, including campaigns for better wages, academic freedom, and government accountability.
Aremu’s activism spanned several decades, often marked by detentions, public protests, and his unwavering belief in the power of collective struggle.
He played significant roles in the Joint Action Front (JAF) and worked closely with other pro-democracy groups during Nigeria’s military era, making his mark as a fearless mobiliser who challenged oppressive systems.
Nation Mourns a Hero of the Masses
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the country, with activists, labour leaders, and civil society figures describing Aremu’s death as an “irreparable loss to Nigeria’s progressive community.”
Many highlighted his humility, intellectual depth, and unrelenting energy in promoting human dignity and social equality.
While mourning his passing, President Tinubu prayed for the peaceful repose of Aremu’s soul and asked God to grant his family and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.
“Comrade Aremu’s voice may be silent, but his impact will echo through Nigeria’s social justice movement for generations,” Tinubu said.
