In response to the disturbing incident involving the alleged assault on Mr. Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has taken swift action, issuing a directive for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The announcement came during a press conference held in Owerri, presided over by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, ahead of the governorship election in Imo State.
According to Adejobi, the IGP has tasked the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department to spearhead the investigation with the primary objective of ascertaining the true facts surrounding the incident. This move is in response to the myriad versions of the incident that have surfaced, necessitating a thorough inquiry to clear the conflicting accounts.
“The Nigeria Police Force understands the importance of transparency and accountability in maintaining public trust,” Adejobi emphasized during the press conference.
Addressing concerns from organized labour and the public, Adejobi assured that the IGP personally intervened to address the issues surrounding the assault. He further stressed that the investigation is underway, highlighting the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to diligently follow through and take appropriate actions based on the conclusive findings.
The incident in question occurred on November 1 and involved the reported arrest of Mr. Joe Ajaero by police operatives in Owerri. Subsequently, he was allegedly subjected to physical assault by suspected thugs after being taken to an undisclosed location. The NLC president had led workers in a protest over unpaid salaries in the state on the same day, intensifying concerns over the incident.
As the investigation unfolds, the call for transparency and accountability in maintaining public trust echoes the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to uphold justice and ensure that those responsible for the assault are held accountable. The assurance from the IGP and the initiation of a thorough investigation aim to provide clarity and resolution to the disturbing incident that has sparked widespread concern within the public and the organized labour community.
