Former Edo NLC Chairman, Eboigbodin Slumps, Dies After Encounter With Police

Tragedy struck in Edo State as Comrade Kaduna Eboigbodin, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, passed away following an altercation with police officers at a roadblock in the Upper Sokponba area of Benin City.

The incident occurred on Monday while Eboigbodin was driving with his wife. According to Rev. David Ugolor, Executive Director of the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), police officers stopped Eboigbodin’s vehicle, allegedly over a mismatch between the car’s glass engraving and its plate number. Despite providing valid explanations and up-to-date vehicle documents, the officers reportedly seized the documents, ordered his arrest, and called for a tow truck.

The confrontation escalated, leading to Eboigbodin slumping at the scene. He was rushed to the hospital by bystanders and his wife but was pronounced dead on arrival. Witnesses allege that the officers fled instead of assisting him.

In a statement, the Edo State Police Command denied allegations of misconduct. Police spokesperson SP Moses Yamu stated that the account presented by civil society groups differed from the version provided by Eboigbodin’s wife to the authorities.

The incident has sparked outrage among civil society organizations, labor unions, and the public. ANEEJ, alongside the Edo Civil Society Organizations (EDOSCO), has demanded accountability and justice. Comrade Omobude Agho, Coordinator-General of EDOSCO, described the police actions as shocking and called for an immediate investigation.

Rev. Ugolor paid tribute to Eboigbodin, highlighting his contributions as a dedicated leader, and activist, former NLC Chairman in Edo State, National Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), and a pioneer in civil society initiatives.

Civil society groups have issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the police to identify and hold the officers involved accountable. They insist that the incident underscores the urgent need for police reforms and greater accountability within the Nigerian Police Force.

Eboigbodin’s death has reignited calls for justice and reform, with labor unions, civil society organizations, and concerned citizens demanding immediate action.