Tension As Labour Leader Allegedly Slumps, Dies At Police Check-Point

Comrade Kaduna Eboigbodin, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Edo State, has tragically passed away after an alleged confrontation with police officers at a roadblock in Benin City’s Upper Sokponba area. The incident has ignited widespread condemnation and demands for accountability.

According to Rev. David Ugolor, the Executive Director of the African Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ), the incident occurred on Monday when Eboigbodin was driving with his wife. Police officers reportedly stopped his car and requested his vehicle documents. Despite having valid papers, the officers raised concerns over an apparent mismatch between the car’s glass engraving and its plate number.

Eboigbodin attempted to explain the situation, but the officers allegedly seized his documents and called for a tow truck to impound the vehicle. Witnesses reported that tensions escalated, and the former labour leader slumped during the altercation. He was rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. Onlookers claimed that the officers fled the scene instead of providing assistance.

The Edo State Police Command has refuted allegations of wrongdoing. SP Moses Yamu, a spokesperson for the Command, stated, “The account shared by civil rights groups does not align with the version provided by the deceased’s wife to the authorities.”

Civil society groups, including ANEEJ and the Edo Civil Society Organizations (EDOSCO), have condemned the incident and demanded swift justice. Rev. Ugolor described Eboigbodin as a committed leader and advocate who had made significant contributions to the labour movement. He was a former NLC Chairman in Edo State, National Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), and a prominent voice in civil society.

Comrade Omobude Agho, the Coordinator-General of EDOSCO, expressed deep sorrow, stating, “This is a loss not only to the labour movement but to all of Edo State. Kaduna Eboigbodin was a respected and honorable figure who fought tirelessly for workers’ rights and justice.”

Civil rights organizations have given the police a 48-hour ultimatum to identify and prosecute the officers involved. They also called for broader reforms within the Nigerian Police Force to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Eboigbodin’s death has sparked outrage among labour unions, civil society groups, and the general public, with many demanding transparency, accountability, and justice for the late leader.

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