President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to Nigeria’s labour movement and civil society over the death of veteran unionist and rights activist, Comrade Abiodun Aremu.
Aremu passed away on Sunday in Ota, Ogun State. He was widely respected for his decades-long commitment to labour advocacy and human rights.
In a statement by his spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu condoled with Aremu’s family, friends, and associates over the loss.
The president described Aremu as a steadfast champion of workers’ rights who gave his life to the fight for dignity, justice, and equity in Nigeria.
He also extended condolences to the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), and broader civil society groups.
Tinubu said Aremu’s passing was a painful loss to those who shared his vision for a fairer and more just society.
“He was a courageous comrade who remained steadfast in his beliefs and never wavered in his defence of the oppressed.
“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,” the President remarked.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Aremu’s soul and asked for strength for his family and loved ones in this difficult time.
NAN reports that Aremu, who died on Sunday, was initially scheduled to be buried on Monday.
The renowned activist and Secretary of the Joint Action Front, JAF,— the umbrella body for pro-labour civil society organisations, aged 65, was reportedly knocked down by a vehicle while crossing the road to his residence in Ota, Ogun State, around 6 p.m. on Sunday.
He was said to have been rushed to a nearby hospital, where doctors tried to resuscitate him with oxygen, but he was later confirmed dead.
