By Mokobia Rita.
ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has assured the family of late Mr Unity Ekpevbughe Adeda, a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, that it will pursue the truth surrounding his death and ensure that justice is not compromised.
The assurance was given by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Eze Emu, on Saturday, September 26, when he led a delegation of senior government officials to the family’s residence to convey the condolences of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the state government.
Emu described Adeda’s death as a painful loss to both his family and the Delta State Public Service, saying the government considered the circumstances surrounding the incident a matter requiring serious attention.
He said the government was awaiting the outcome of the investigation by the Delta State Police Command, while reaffirming Governor Oborevwori’s directive that the circumstances leading to the death be thoroughly established.
The SSG also explained that the state government had, in consultation with organised labour, constituted an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident and make recommendations on measures that could strengthen conflict-resolution mechanisms within the public service.
He stressed that the administrative inquiry was separate from the police investigation and was not intended to interfere with the work of law enforcement agencies.
According to him, the government wants both processes to run their full course so that the facts can be established and appropriate steps taken based on the findings.
The government has previously announced that the eight-member administrative panel has two weeks to complete its assignment. The panel includes representatives of the state civil service and organised labour.
Emu said the state government had also engaged labour leaders over the matter and assured workers that the safety and dignity of civil servants remained important responsibilities of the administration.
“We are here to share in your grief, reassure you of government’s concern and commitment, and let you know that justice will not be compromised,” he said.
The SSG’s visit came as investigations into Adeda’s death continued. The police have separately commenced an investigation and announced the arrest of one person while efforts are ongoing to locate two others allegedly linked to the incident. The police have said the allegations remain subject to investigation.
The government delegation’s message to the family was therefore one of condolence and reassurance, with Emu stressing that the administration would allow the relevant investigative processes to establish what happened.
Responding on behalf of the family, Mr Godwin Akamakusi thanked Governor Oborevwori and the state government for visiting the family and identifying with them at the difficult moment.
Akamakusi, however, urged the authorities to ensure that the investigations are thorough and that the circumstances surrounding Adeda’s death are fully established.
The state government has continued to call for calm as the police investigation and administrative inquiry proceed.
