Delta govt sets up 8-man panel to probe death of deputy director in office

The Delta State Government has constituted an eight-man Administrative Panel of Inquiry to unravel the circumstances surrounding the death of a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Adeda Ekwevugbe, who died in his workplace under unclear circumstances.

The incident, which occurred within the ministry's premises, has sparked serious concerns among civil servants, organized labour unions and the general public.

In a Government Special Announcement issued on Thursday, 25th September, 2025 and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu, the state government expressed deep concern over the incident.

According to the statement, while the Police have already commenced investigation into the matter, the state government in consultation with Organized Labour jointly agreed to set up an independent Administrative Panel to ensure a thorough and transparent inquiry.

The panel, which has two weeks to complete its assignment, is chaired by Mrs. Charity Ehimen, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service.

Other members of the panel are: Mr. Mamuzo Erebe, SAN – Solicitor General/Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice – Member, Mr. Lucky Nkemachor – Permanent Secretary, Office of the Secretary to the State Government – Member, Sir A.E Oghoro – Executive Assistant to the Governor on Public Service – Member, Comr. Goodluck Ofobruku – Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Delta State – Member, Comr. Chief Benson Efeotor – Chairman, Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) – Member, Comr. Wilson Asekutu – Chairman, Trade Union Congress (TUC) – Member, Comr. Dennis Chuks Isichei – Secretary, Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) – Member/Secretary

According to the statement, the panel is mandated to unearth the circumstances surrounding the death to enable government to deal fairly and squarely with all issues involved within the scope of the law.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Government has commiserated with the family of the deceased and assured civil servants of its commitment to ensuring a safe work environment and its abiding respect for the dignity and sanctity of human life.