IGP Orders Probe Into Alleged Assault On NLC’s President, Assures Transparent Investigation

The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has launched an investigation into the reported assault on National Labour Congress President, Comrade Joe Ajaero.

The directive comes amid a swirl of differing accounts surrounding the incident, prompting the need for a comprehensive and impartial inquiry.

Prime Business Africa reported that Ajaero was beaten after he was arrested in Imo while leading a protest for better salaries in the state. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have declared a total nationwide strike effective next Tuesday, November 14, 2023, over the incident.

Speaking on the matter, the IGP stressed the significance of transparency and trust in maintaining public confidence. He stated, “We understand the importance of clarity in this matter. Our objective is to uncover the truth and address any uncertainties.”

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In a direct address to the public and organized labor, the IGP assured that the investigation, under the oversight of the Deputy Inspector General in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, is underway. “I intervened to address this issue and ensure a fair investigation,” the IGP added.

When asked for clarification on the timeline and specifics of the investigation, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, emphasized, “The inquiry has commenced and will continue until a conclusive end. The Nigeria Police Force is committed to taking appropriate actions based on the investigation’s findings.”

The development has garnered a collective call for calm from both organized labor and the public. Amidst the ongoing investigation, the IGP’s reassurance of a thorough, unbiased inquiry remains at the forefront.

The investigation has attracted public attention, with many hoping for a resolution that upholds justice and accountability. The Nigeria Police Force aims to keep the public informed as the inquiry progresses.