The Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Civil Society Community of Edo State have commended Governor Okpebholo for his prompt response to the tragic death of Comrade Kaduna Eboigbodin, who died on Tuesday, 3 December allegedly as a result of unptprofessional behaviour of police personnel at a checkpoint along Upper Sokponba road in Benin City.
In a letter of appreciation to Governor Okpebholo signed by Comrade Benard Joman, Acting Chairman of the state chapter of NLC and Rev. David Ugolor, Spokesperson, Civil Society Community, Edo State noted that the Governor demonstrated outstanding leadership by responding to their petition in less than 24 hours and visited the family of the deceased.
According to the letter, “On behalf of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Civil Society Community of Edo State, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your prompt and compassionate response following the tragic death of Comrade Kaduna Eboigbodin.
“Your visit to the Kaduna family and the support you provided during this difficult time have been sincerely appreciated by all of us.
“In less than 24 hours after we submitted our petition regarding the circumstances of Comrade Eboigbodin’s untimely passing—attributed to the unprofessional conduct of certain members of the Nigeria Police Force—you demonstrated remarkable leadership by personally visiting the bereaved family. Your actions have not only brought comfort to them but have also reassured the people of Edo State of the possibility of achieving justice”.
While reinterating their call for an independent body to investigate the circumstances leading to the death of Eboigbodin at the police checkpoint, the letter assured the Governor of the partnership of the NLC and CSOs in to ensure a safe and just Edo State.
“While we are grateful for your support, we must emphasize the urgent need to establish an independent panel of inquiry to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding Comrade Kaduna’s death. It is vital that an impartial body conducts this inquiry, as the police cannot effectively judge their own actions..
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with your administration to ensure a safe and just Edo State, where the rights of all citizens are upheld”.