The death of Delta State Deputy Director Unity Ekpevbughe Adeda has sparked widespread concern, with Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, the state's governorship candidate of the New Democratic Congress (NDC), calling for an independent and transparent investigation into the incident. Adeda died at the Asaba Specialist Hospital following an incident at the Delta State Secretariat in Asaba. Iyovwaye described the incident as "deeply troubling" and urged authorities to thoroughly examine the circumstances surrounding Adeda's death.
According to Iyovwaye, the people of Delta State deserve answers regarding the incident, including what happened inside the Secretariat, who was present, and what led to Adeda's death. He emphasized the need for a thorough investigation, including the examination of medical evidence, eyewitness accounts, video recordings, and the outcome of an independent autopsy. The police investigation is ongoing, with the Delta State Police Command confirming that they are examining video footage, eyewitness accounts, and medical records.
One suspect, identified as Lucky Adoh, has been arrested in connection with Adeda's death, while efforts are underway to apprehend two other aides of the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Enos Attah and Oputa Okestine. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has also weighed in on the incident, with Delta State chairman Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku demanding that anyone found responsible for the alleged assault be brought to justice.
The incident has sparked widespread concern, with labour union members reportedly locking down the Prof. Chike Edozien Secretariat Complex in Asaba, disrupting state civil service operations. However, Iyovwaye cautioned against reaching conclusions before the investigation is completed, stressing that all accounts, including that of the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr Kingsley Ashibogwu, should be tested against the evidence.
Iyovwaye emphasized the need for an independent and credible investigation, free from fear, favour, or political interference. He called on the Delta State Police Command to conduct its investigation without bias and urged the state government to cooperate fully with investigators. Additionally, he called on the Head of Service and relevant authorities to protect civil servants who witnessed the incident from intimidation, harassment, or reprisal.
The incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of civil servants in the state. Iyovwaye stressed that government offices should remain places where workers can perform their duties without fear and where disagreements are resolved through professionalism, due process, and respect for human life. He emphasized that this is not a moment for political retaliation but rather a moment for truth, justice, and accountability.
The investigation into Adeda's death is ongoing, with the police and other authorities working to establish the facts surrounding the incident. Iyovwaye's call for a transparent probe has been echoed by various stakeholders, who are demanding justice for Adeda and his family. The outcome of the investigation is expected to shed more light on the circumstances surrounding Adeda's death and potentially lead to those responsible being brought to justice.
Key points
- Deacon Chris Iyovwaye demands independent investigation into the death of Delta State Deputy Director Unity Ekpevbughe Adeda
- One suspect arrested, two others at large in connection with Adeda's death
- Labour union members lock down Secretariat Complex in Asaba, disrupting state civil service operations
