Family of Delta civil servant murdered rejects state govt’s condolence visit, assurances
Family of Deceased Civil Servant Rejects State Government’s Condolences
The family of Unity Adeda, a Level 16 civil servant in the Delta State Ministry of Secondary Education who died following an altercation at work, has declined condolence visits from state officials.
Despite the family’s rejection, the Delta State government remains committed to ensuring that justice is served. On Saturday, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the State Government, led a delegation of senior government officials to express their condolences to Adeda’s family.
Among those in the delegation were Hon. Johnson Erijo, Chief of Staff to the Governor; Mr. Lucky Nkemachor, Permanent Secretary in the SSG’s Office; Mrs. Kevwe Agas, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Women Affairs and Community Development; and Mr. Lawson Efenudu, Executive Secretary of the State Pensions Bureau.
In his remarks, Emu emphasized the government’s concern regarding the incident and stated that each life is significant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration. He expressed sympathy not only for the family but also for the civil service and the wider community, noting the deceased’s valuable contributions as a senior public servant.
“The entire state is mourning,” Emu said. “Every life matters, regardless of rank or position within the organization.”
As for the circumstances surrounding Adeda’s death, Emu reported that the police investigation is ongoing. Preliminary accounts suggest that an internal workplace conflict escalated, leading to the tragedy. Governor Oborevwori has directed the Commissioner of Police to conduct a thorough inquiry, and statements have already been collected from individuals involved in the incident.
Additionally, the government has established an administrative panel comprising current and retired civil servants. This panel will evaluate the situation and develop better conflict-resolution strategies within the public service. Emu clarified that the administrative review is meant to complement, not interfere with, the police investigation.
“Workplace conflicts are common, but they must be addressed through the appropriate institutional channels to prevent escalation,” he said.
Following the incident, the government met with labor leaders to reassure them of a safe work environment for civil servants and affirmed their commitment to justice. Emu urged civil servants to remain calm and continued fulfilling their duties.
“We are here to express the government’s condolences and to reassure you, the family, that justice will not be compromised,” he stated.
In response, Mr. Godwin Akamakusi, speaking on behalf of the family, called for a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the death and demanded accountability.
He criticized the absence of action against Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, a key suspect in the case, stating, “The Commissioner, an agent of the government, is still protected by Delta State, hindering justice.”
The family also expressed skepticism regarding the administrative panel, citing concerns over its composition, which includes only civil servants without external oversight or representation from family members or human rights organizations.
The emotional turmoil surrounding the case continues to resonate within the community, illustrating the broader implications of workplace safety and accountability within public service.
