How Ex-NLC Chairman Slumped, Died During Dispute with Police Officer Over Vehicle Particulars

Israel Adeleke

The police command in Edo state on Wednesday has ordered an investigation into the circumstances that caused the death of a former chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC), Comrade Kaduna Eboigbodin, at a police checkpoint in Benin City.

The command spokesman, SP Moses Yamu, who disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, Umoru P. Ozigi gave the order to investigate what truly transpired at the scene, revealed that the CP assured the world that the police would investigate issues of unprofessional conduct in the incident.

An eyewitness who spoke as anonymous said that the incident occurred when Eboigbodin was driving with his spouse through Upper Sakponba Road on Monday in Benin City.

According to the source, the police stopped Eboigbodin and demanded his vehicle particulars, which he provided.

The source added that, however, a discrepancy in the documents sparked a heated argument, as the police were said to have accused him of driving a stolen vehicle.

Furthermore, the source said the policemen allegedly ordered him to drive to their station, which Eboigbodin refused, demanding to know his offence.

The situation degenerated into arguments and Eboigbodin, who had became infuriated, slumped on the however

It was, however, gathered that the police officers fled the scene, leaving Eboigbodin’s wife to rush him to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

Subsequently, the command spokesman said the Edo State Command of the Nigeria Police received with great concern, news of the death of Eboigbodin, former Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in Edo.

Iyamu said the CP wished to commiserate with the widow, family, friends, and associates of the deceased over the loss and prayed for the repose of his soul.

“The CP noted the cordial working relationship existing between the Police, Civil Society Organisations, NLC and all critical stakeholders in the state and has, therefore, directed the immediate investigation into the incident.

“The command remains committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring justice prevails in every situation,” Yamu said.