Senator representing Delta Central Senatorial District, Ede Dafinone, has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the death of Mr Adeda Ekwevugbe, a Deputy Director in the Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.
Ekwevugbe, an indigene of Ughelli Kingdom, reportedly died following an incident at his workplace.
Dafinone, in a statement on Saturday, described the death as “profoundly shocking and sad”, insisting that the circumstances surrounding the incident were troubling and required the authorities to establish the truth.
The senator said it was unacceptable for a public servant who went to work in service of the state to lose his life under circumstances that had left his family, colleagues and members of the public seeking answers.
He expressed condolences to the Ekwevugbe family, describing the deceased as an Urhobo son and dedicated public servant who died in the prime of his career.
Dafinone also acknowledged the steps taken by the Delta State Government under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to constitute an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death.
He equally noted the ongoing investigation by the Delta State Police Command.
The senator urged residents of Ughelli Kingdom, the Urhobo nation, civil servants and other concerned Deltans to remain calm and allow the investigations to run their course.
He said the demand for justice should not be allowed to interfere with the process of establishing what happened.
Dafinone, nevertheless, warned against any attempt to conceal the circumstances surrounding the death, insisting that anyone found culpable must face the law.
“There must be no cover-up, no sacred cows and no attempt to shield anyone found culpable,” he said.
“The investigation must follow the evidence wherever it leads, and anyone found responsible must face the full weight of the law.”
He added, “Justice for Mr Adeda Ekwevugbe must not only be done; it must be seen to be done.”
Dafinone further pledged to closely monitor developments concerning the incident and work with the state government, relevant authorities and security agencies towards establishing the truth.
He prayed for the repose of Ekwevugbe’s soul and strength for his family, friends, colleagues and the entire Ughelli Kingdom to bear the loss.
