Carry out thorough investigation into Adeda's death, Confab urges Oborevwori, IGP, NHRC, PSC

A group under the auspices of CONFAB for the Actualization of Human Rights have called on the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, National Human Rights Commission, NHRC and the Police Service Commission, PSC to  carry out a thorough investigation into the alleged murder of a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education in Delta State, Mr. Unity E. Adeda. 

CONFAB's Director-General, Omemiroro Ogedegbe Esq made the call in a statement made available to newsmen in Warri. 

The group also said that evidences in the cause of the investigation be preserved, and that anyone found responsible be dealt with according to law.

The deceased was alleged to have been beaten to death by the aides and Police detail of the commissioner of the Ministry. 

The group noted that the deceased,a level sixteen(16) officer had a confrontation involving the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, following which he was allegedly assaulted and restrained by some persons present. 

"There are further allegations that he was tied and subjected to physical violence before his death.

"These allegations are grave and must not be treated as an ordinary administrative disagreement. We emphasise that the allegations require proper investigation and should not be regarded as established facts until competent authorities determine what occurred."

According to the group,"We therefore urgently demand: An independent and transparent criminal investigation into the circumstances of Mr. Adeda's death.

"Immediate preservation and examination of CCTV footage, security registers, access records and other evidence from the State Secretariat.

"An independent autopsy/post-mortem examination to establish the cause and manner of death.

"Identification and interrogation of all persons present or allegedly involved in the incident. Investigation of the allegation that Mr. Adeda was restrained, tied or assaulted.

"Appropriate arrest and prosecution of anyone against whom the investigation establishes a criminal case, subject to due process.

"NHRC intervention to investigate any alleged violation of Mr. Adeda's fundamental human rights.

"Police Service Commission oversight to ensure that the police investigation is conducted professionally and without improper interference.
Protection of the deceased's family and witnesses from intimidation or retaliation.

"A transparent communication of the outcome of the investigation to the family and the public, subject to lawful investigative limitations."

The group explained that,"We are not asking for conviction without trial or for government to prejudge anyone. We are demanding that the death of a public servant be properly investigated, that evidence be preserved, and that anyone found responsible be dealt with according to law."