Representatives of mass labour unions, pro-democracy groups and human rights bodies gathered in Ota, Ogun State, on Thursday 23rd October 2025, to pay their final respects to the late human rights activist, Comrade Abiodun Aremu, popularly known as Comrade Aremson.
A candlelight procession and vigil was held in his honour on Wednesday 22nd October 2025. The laying in state of his body at his residence took place from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Thursday 23rd October,2025. A two-hour session of funeral orations and family tributes took place before his remains were interred at his home near Ijako Sugar Bus Stop, along the Lagos–Abeokuta Expressway.
Born in 1960, Comrade Abiodun Aremu was a respected activist, labour organiser and one of Nigeria’s enduring voices in the struggle for social justice and democracy. He was a former students’ union leader at Kwara Polytechnic and went on to serve as General Secretary of the Joint Action Front (JAF) and Secretary of the Labour and Civil Society Coalition (LASCO).
His life’s work centred on defending human rights, promoting equity and advancing the welfare of the masses. He passed away after sustaining fatal injuries in a hit-and-run incident on 12th October 2025, when a commercial bus, locally known as a Korope, struck him near his residence in Ota, Ogun State.
During the funeral, comrades, colleagues and friends from across Nigeria described him as a disciplined organiser, mentor and symbol of commitment to democratic ideals. The National President of Human and Socio-Economic Rights, Comrade Alex Omotehin, highlighted his dependability and long-standing contribution to human rights causes.
The Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Lagos State Chapter, reflected on his tireless dedication to workers’ rights and his influence on generations of labour activists. Senator Shehu Sani, a fellow activist and contemporary, recognised him as a revolutionary whose devotion to democracy and national unity remained unwavering throughout his lifetime.
Throughout the wake-keep and funeral, the Sango Ota Area Command of the Nigeria Police Force maintained a visible presence to ensure peace and stability. The officers provided professional security coverage across Ota and adjoining communities.
The police worked in a coordinated security effort to maintain calm and prevent disruptions. Their operation ensured that residents and mourners could participate safely and go about their activities without concern.
The family of the deceased, together with members of the activist community, expressed appreciation to the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Assistant Inspector-General of Police in-charge of Zone 2, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, the Ogun State Commissioner of Police, CP Lanre Ogunlowo, Assistant Commissioner of Police In-Charge of Operations, Ogun State Police Command, ACP Adaramola Felix, Area Commander of the Ota Police Area Command, ACP Shola Oladele, and the entire Nigeria Police Force, for their effective management of the event.
Comrade Abiodun Aremu’s passing marks the departure of a leading figure in Nigeria’s pro-democracy and labour movement. His ideals, discipline and courage continue to inspire the civic community and the younger generation of activists committed to justice, equity and national progress.
