Tension In Edo State As Former NLC Chairman Slumps, Dies After Encounter With Police
Comrade Kaduna Eboigbodin, the former Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State, has tragically passed away after a confrontation with police officers at a roadblock in the Upper Sokponba area of Benin City.
In response, civil society groups have issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the police to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the incident.
Eboigbodin, who was driving with his wife, was reportedly stopped on Monday by the police.
According to Rev. David Ugolor, Executive Director of the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), Eboigbodin’s wife stated that the officers demanded the vehicle’s papers, which were up to date.
They raised concerns about a discrepancy between the car’s glass engraving and its plate number.
Despite offering an explanation, the police allegedly seized his documents, ordered his arrest, and called for a tow truck to impound the vehicle.
The situation quickly escalated, and Eboigbodin reportedly collapsed at the scene.
His wife and bystanders rushed him to the hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
Witnesses claim the officers fled without offering any help.
The Edo State Police Command has denied the allegations of misconduct.
Police spokesperson SP Moses Yamu stated that the account provided by civil rights groups does not match the version of events given by Eboigbodin’s wife to the authorities.
Civil society organizations, including ANEEJ and the Edo Civil Society Organizations (EDOSCO), have called for justice for Eboigbodin.
Rev. Ugolor remembered him as a dedicated leader, former NLC Chairman in Edo State, National Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), and a pioneer in various civil society movements.
Comrade Omobude Agho, Coordinator-General of EDOSCO, expressed shock at the police’s actions, stressing that Eboigbodin was a respected and well-known figure in the state.
The groups have given the police 48 hours to identify the officers involved and provide a full explanation of the incident.
They have also emphasized the need for reform within the Nigerian Police Force and greater accountability for officers’ conduct.
Eboigbodin’s death has sparked widespread anger and demands for justice from labor unions, civil society organizations, and the public.