The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called for a full investigation into the death of veteran activist, Comrade Abiodun ‘Aremson’ Aremu, who died on Sunday, 12 October 2025, in what was described as a hit-and-run incident in Ifo, Ogun State.

In a statement issued on Monday, the NLC expressed deep sorrow over the passing of the labour leader, describing him as a “teacher and steadfast general” whose life was dedicated to the struggle for workers’ rights and social justice.

“The Nigeria Labour Congress and the entire progressive civil society are plunged into deep grief and shattering sorrow by the tragic and untimely death of our comrade,” the statement read. “We cannot, and will not, accept this as a mere accident. The Nigerian state must dispel the foul odour surrounding his death by apprehending the perpetrator and revealing the full truth.”
Aremu, a co-founder of the Labour and Civil Society Coalition (LASCO) and the Joint Action Front (JAF), was known for his advocacy for unity between workers and the wider masses in their struggle against economic hardship and injustice.

He also established the Amilcar Cabral Institute of Ideological Studies, which the NLC described as “his ideological gift to the movement,” aimed at educating young activists in socialist thought and political organisation.

The Congress said Aremu’s death bore similarities to other suspicious incidents involving activists, citing the case of the late Patrick Naagbanton. It urged the Federal and Ogun State Governments to ensure transparency in the investigation.

“As we mourn this colossal loss, we call on all comrades and Nigerians who yearn for a better world to converge on Ifo on Thursday, 23 October, to collectively give our beloved General a befitting burial,” the statement added.

NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, who signed the release, said the most fitting tribute to Aremu would be to continue the struggle he devoted his life to.

“The greatest tribute we can pay to this fearless teacher is to immortalise him not just in tears, but in action,” Ajaero said. “The struggle continues until the liberation of the working class is complete.”