Ogun SSG Denies Involvement in NURTW Member’s Arrest

On Monday, Talabi Olatokunbo, the Secretary to the Ogun State Government, refuted claims of involvement in the arrest of Babatunde Aremu, the All Progressives Congress Youth Leader for Ijebu Ode Local Government and a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).

Aremu was reportedly apprehended by Department of State Services operatives in Ijebu Ode on Sunday, allegedly for planning a protest in response to the ongoing NURTW crisis in the state.

A video that surfaced on Monday showed what appeared to be security officers in two unmarked white Hilux vehicles firing shots, seemingly to disperse a crowd.

The video, said to be recorded during Aremu’s arrest on Sunday, alleged that Talabi, the Secretary to the state government, ordered the apprehension of the transport union member.

Talabi, however in a statement signed by him on Monday, said he knew nothing about the incident.

He urged the security agencies to ensure transparency in their investigation and provide clear explanations for the circumstances surrounding Aremu’s arrest.

The statement reads, “I am aware of the disturbing video circulating online regarding the arrest of Comrade Babatunde Aremu, Ogun State Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress. I categorically deny any involvement in or ordering of this arrest.

“I urge the security operatives concerned to ensure transparency in their investigation and provide clear explanations for the circumstances surrounding Mr Aremu’s arrest.

“I appeal to the public to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated allegations and allow the truth to emerge through a thorough and impartial investigation.”

In the meantime, the Ogun State Youth Leaders’ Forum has firmly denounced what they referred to as the “the Gestapo-style arrest” of the youth leader.

The Forum, in a statement authored by Sabur Adefolu, Assistant State Youth Leader, and Timothy Odedina, Public Relations Officer of the association, voiced their anger and discontent regarding the way Aremu was apprehended by unknown persons.

They emphasized that this act significantly jeopardizes human rights and the principles of justice.

The youths said, “We demand immediate clarification on the circumstances surrounding his arrest and call for his unconditional release within 24 hours.

“We urge the Department of State Services to either press charges or grant him freedom, as dictated by the law. This incident highlights systemic oppression faced by Ogun State youths.

“We stand behind Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun, a champion of youth empowerment and development, who has fostered peace and stability in our state.”