We’ve lost a true people’s General – CAPPA pays tribute to Aremu

The Nigerian civil society community is in mourning following the death of Comrade Biodun Aremu, fondly known as Aremson, a revered organiser, movement builder, and tireless advocate for social justice, democracy, and public accountability.

In a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA), Robert Egbe, the organisation described his passing as a monumental loss, not just to his family and close allies, but to all progressive movements across Nigeria and beyond.

“A true people’s general,” CAPPA wrote. It said,  “Comrade Aremu lived and breathed struggle. His consistency and depth earned him several leadership roles that helped shape the foundation of Nigeria’s popular movement.”

As Secretary of the Joint Action Front (JAF), Aremu played a pivotal role in uniting the voices of workers, students, and communities in resistance against oppression, inequality, and corporate overreach. He was instrumental in building platforms for political education, coalition-building, and grassroots organising, ensuring that movements were not only loud in protest but strategic in action.

His activism extended beyond Nigeria’s borders. Guided by a deep belief in international solidarity, Aremu saw the struggle for Nigerian liberation as inextricably linked to global movements of oppressed peoples. This perspective earned him widespread recognition and respect from global civil society networks.

CAPPA particularly highlighted his unwavering support for its campaigns against corporate capture, privatisation of essential services, and erosion of public welfare. He was a staunch ally of the Our Water Our Right Africa Coalition (OWORAC), a continent-wide effort to resist water privatisation.

“He often reminded us that water is not a product to be sold but a right that belongs to every human being,” the statement read.

Despite facing health challenges in recent years, Aremu remained active, mentoring younger activists, attending meetings, and offering strategic guidance. His resilience, according to CAPPA, was a testament to his unshakable faith in collective struggle and the power of people united in purpose.

“His passing is a painful reminder of how much the Nigerian state and people owe to those who have given their lives to the fight for a better society,” the statement noted.

“But as we mourn, we also take courage in knowing that his legacy will continue to inspire every campaign for accountability, public ownership, and people’s power.”

CAPPA pledged to honour Aremu’s memory by continuing the fight for the values he held dear: public ownership of essential services, democratic accountability, and the dignity of all people.

“Rest in power, Comrade Aremu. Your struggle lives on in ours.”