The Secretary to the Ogun State government, Talabi Olatokunbo, on Monday, denied involvement in the arrest of the All Progressives Congress Youth Leader for Ijebu Ode Local Government and a member of National Union of Road Transport Workers, Babatunde Aremu.
Aremu was said to have been picked up by the operatives of the Department of State Services on Sunday, in Ijebu Ode, on alleged account of planning to stage a protest today over the crisis rocking the NURTW in the state.
A video circulating on Monday showed some people suspected to be security personnel in two unmarked white Hilux vehicles shooting, apparently to scare people away.
The video was said to have been recorded on Sunday, during the arrest of the transport union worker and his arrest was allegedly ordered by the Secretary to the state government, Talabi.
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.
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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.”
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Youth Leaders’ Forum has strongly condemned what it called “the Gestapo-style arrest” of the youth leader.
The Forum, in a statement signed by Sabur Adefolu, Assistant State Youth Leader and Timothy Odedina, Public Relations Officer of the association, expressed outrage and disappointment at the manner of Aremu’s arrest by unidentified individuals.
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They said this action notably undermines human rights and the rule of law.
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.”
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