In response to the alleged assault on Mr. Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has issued a directive for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The announcement was made by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, during a press conference held in Owerri ahead of the governorship election in Imo State.
According to Adejobi, “Consequently, he has directed the Deputy Inspector-General (DIG) in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department, to take over the matter with the primary objective of ascertaining the true facts surrounding the incident.
“The DIG is to address any ambiguities that may exist as the Police have been inundated with different versions of the incident making investigation imperative to clear the conflicting accounts.
“The Nigeria Police Force understands the importance of transparency and accountability in maintaining public trust.”
While urging organised labour and the public to remain calm, the Force Public Relations Officer highlighted that the IGP personally intervened to address the issues surrounding the incident.
He reassured that the investigation had commenced, emphasizing the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to follow through and take appropriate actions based on the conclusive findings.
The incident, which occurred on November 1, involved the reported arrest of Mr. Joe Ajaero by police operatives in Owerri.
Subsequently, he was allegedly beaten by suspected thugs after being taken to an unknown destination.
The NLC president had led workers in a protest over unpaid salaries in the state on the same day, further escalating concerns over the incident.
