The Secretary to the Ogun State government, Talabi Olatokunbo, has denied any involvement in the arrest of Babatunde Aremu, a member of the National Union of Road Transport Workers and the All Progressives Congress Youth Leader for Ijebu Ode Local Government.
Aremu was picked up by Department of State Services (DSS) operatives on Sunday in Ijebu Ode, allegedly for planning a protest over the crisis rocking the NURTW in the state.
A video circulating online showed security personnel in unmarked vehicles shooting to disperse people during Aremu’s arrest, sparking widespread concern. However, Talabi released a statement on Monday, distancing himself from the incident and urging security agencies to ensure transparency in their investigation.
Talabi emphasized that he knew nothing about the arrest and called for clear explanations surrounding the circumstances. He also appealed to the public to refrain from spreading unsubstantiated allegations and allow the truth to emerge through a thorough investigation.
The Ogun State Youth Leaders’ Forum has condemned Aremu’s arrest, describing it as “Gestapo-style” and urging the Department of State Services to provide immediate clarification or press charges within 24 hours. The forum expressed outrage and disappointment at the manner of the arrest, highlighting concerns about human rights and the rule of law.
