A former Chairman  of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) at the Obafemi Awolowo University, OAU, Ile-Ife, Prof. Omotoye Olorode, has mourned the death of labour activist,  Oyèkàn Aríjẹ, describing him as a committed patriot and a reliable friend of Nigeria’s working class.

Olorode, in a condolence message issued on Thursday, said he was saddened by the passing of Aríjẹ, whom he described as a teacher, motivator, patient organiser and intellectual of the working class.

He said the late activist made significant contributions to the struggle for the advancement of workers’ interests, adding that his death was a loss to the labour movement and the wider progressive community.

“We are saddened by the passing into eternity of Comrade Oyèkàn Aríjẹ.

“Comrade Oyèkàn Aríjẹ was a committed and most reliable patriot, teacher, motivator, and friend of Nigeria’s working class. He was a patient organiser and intellectual of the working class,” Olorode said.

The former ASUU chairman commiserated with the family of the deceased, as well as his colleagues and comrades in the labour movement.

He prayed for the repose of Aríjẹ’s soul, saying: “May his soul find peace and rest on the other side of eternity.”

Olorode, however, said the death of the activist would not bring an end to the struggle for social justice and workers’ rights.

“The struggle continues! And we shall overcome,” he added.