Labour Unions Demand Justice Over Death Of Activist Abiodun Aremu

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) have called for a full investigation into the death of veteran labour activist Abiodun Aremu, who was killed in a hit-and-run accident in Ogun State.

Aremu, aged 65, was reportedly struck by a speeding vehicle on Sunday evening, October 12, 2025, near his home in Ota, Ifo Local Government Area. The driver fled the scene, leaving the renowned activist fatally injured. His death has thrown Nigeria’s labour community and civil society circles into mourning.

In a statement issued by its president, Joe Ajaero, the NLC described Aremu’s passing as a devastating blow to the working class and the poor whose rights he defended for decades. Ajaero called for a transparent and thorough probe, insisting that the mysterious nature of the incident raised suspicion. He said the manner of Aremu’s death mirrored previous unresolved cases involving prominent activists.

The statement praised Aremu as a fearless organiser, a deep thinker, and one of the strongest voices for workers’ rights in Nigeria’s modern labour movement. Ajaero noted that Aremu was instrumental in building alliances between labour and civil society through platforms like the Labour Civil Society Coalition (LASCO) and the Joint Action Front (JAF). He described him as a man who lived for justice and equality, dedicating his life to the pursuit of a fair and socialist society.

NUPENG also mourned the loss in a joint statement by its President, Prince Williams Akporeha, and General Secretary, Afolabi Olawale. The union called Aremu “the conscience of the struggle,” commending his courage and leadership in championing workers’ rights locally and globally. NUPENG noted that his vision helped shape movements such as LASCO and the Kolagbodi Memorial Foundation, both of which strengthened the fight for social justice.

Across the activist community, tributes have poured in. The Afrikan Movement for Freedom and Justice (AMFJ) described Aremu as a beacon of ideological discipline and one of the few remaining symbols of Pan-African revolutionary thought. The group said his teachings reignited hope for justice, equity, and collective progress among young workers and students.

Friends, comrades, and associates remember Aremu as a tireless fighter who stood with workers during strikes, protests, and negotiations. His voice, they said, carried the weight of conviction, and his ideas inspired a generation of activists who continue to believe in a fair and egalitarian Nigeria.

The NLC and NUPENG have urged the Ogun State Government and federal authorities to uncover those responsible for the hit-and-run and bring them to justice. They said Aremu’s death must not become another unsolved tragedy in the nation’s history of silenced voices.