Police Launch Investigation After Former Edo NLC Chair Eboigbodin Dies Following Argument with Officers

The Edo State Police Command has launched an investigation following the death of Comrade Kaduna Eboigbodin, the former chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State.

According to a statement from the NLC, issued through its acting chairman Comrade Joman Bernard, Eboigbodin died after an altercation with police officers in Benin City on Monday. The statement revealed that the argument occurred between Eboigbodin and operatives of the Nigerian Police Force, during which he suddenly collapsed and later died on the way to the hospital.

Bernard stated that while the officers may not have directly caused Eboigbodin’s death, their actions contributed to the situation, and they fled the scene, leaving him struggling for life. “After the operatives aggravated the cause of his untimely death, they ran away, leaving him to suffer. His wife eventually sought help to move him, but he passed away before reaching the hospital,” Bernard said. He described the incident, which took place around 9 a.m. on Sokponba Road between Gorreti and Welfare Junction, as a senseless tragedy that could have been avoided if the officers had been more proactive and concerned about Eboigbodin’s well-being.

In response to public outcry, the Edo State Police Command confirmed that it had initiated an investigation into the incident. Police spokesperson Moses Yamu expressed concern over the reported circumstances of Eboigbodin’s death, highlighting the long-standing cordial relationship between the police and the NLC, civil society organizations, and the general public.

In a statement, Commissioner of Police Umoru P. Ozigi extended condolences to the widow, family, friends, and associates of the deceased. He also emphasized the police’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice is served. “The Command remains dedicated to ensuring justice prevails in every situation,” the statement concluded.