EBOIGBODIN: PRESS RELEASE BY THE NIGERIAN BAR ASSOCIATION, BENIN BRANCH
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Benin Branch, expresses its profound sorrow and indignation over the unfortunate death of Comrade Anthony Kaduna Eboigbodin, a distinguished former President of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Edo State, and a former Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Edo State.
Reports indicate that Comrade Eboigbodin allegedly suffered severe health complications following harassment by operatives of the Nigerian Police Force as he attempted to commute around the Ikpoba-Okha local government of Edo State on the 2nd day of December, 2024.
This was even more pathetic as the officers also fled the scene rather than act as first responders when the complications arose. This tragic incident, which has robbed the labor movement and Edo State of a committed advocate for workers’ rights, is a grave reminder of the urgent need for accountability and the preservation of human rights.
The NBA-Benin conveys its deepest condolences to the family of Comrade Eboigbodin, the labor community, and all who knew him. His passing is a loss to all who value justice, equity, and the welfare of workers in Nigeria.
We urge the Edo State Commissioner of Police to conduct a thorough and transparent investigation into the circumstances surrounding Comrade Eboigbodin’s death. The NBA-Benin demands that any officers or individuals found culpable in this tragic incident be brought to justice promptly, to restore confidence in the rule of law and protect citizens from abuse of power.
Furthermore, the NBA-Benin stands firmly in solidarity with other labor unions and civil society organizations calling for justice for Comrade Eboigbodin. We affirm our commitment to ensuring that justice is served and that the rights and dignity of all individuals are safeguarded.
The death of Comrade Eboigbodin must serve as a clarion call for reforms in law enforcement practices and a reminder of the critical need to uphold the fundamental rights enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. The NBA-Benin will continue to advocate for justice, fairness, and accountability in all spheres of society.
Signed,
Idemudia Iredia Osifo, Esq.
Chairman,
Nigerian Bar Association, Benin Branch
Date: 5th December 2024
