Delta Govt Sets Up Panel to Probe Deputy Director’s Death at Ministry

The Delta State Government has constituted an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Adeda Ekwevugbe, following an incident at the Prof. Chike Edozie Secretariat in Asaba on Thursday, September 24, 2026.

The government said the incident, which occurred within the ministry premises, had raised serious concerns among workers, organised labour and the state government. The police have also commenced a separate investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.

Adeda, identified in reports as a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Secondary Education, was said to have died following an altercation at the ministry. A family member confirmed his death but said the family had not been fully briefed on what led to the incident.

According to the government announcement signed by Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu on Friday, September 25, 2026, the Administrative Panel of Inquiry was constituted in consultation with organised labour to establish what happened and enable the government to address any issues arising from the incident in accordance with the law.

The panel is chaired by Mrs Charity Ehimen, Permanent Secretary, Office of the Head of Service.

Other members are: Mr Mamuzo Erebe, SAN — Solicitor General/Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Justice, Mr Lucky Nkemachor — Permanent Secretary, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Sir A.E. Oghoro — Executive Assistant to the Governor, Public Service, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku — Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Delta State, Comrade Chief Benson Efeotor — Chairman, Joint Negotiating Council, Comrade Wilson Asekutu — Chairman, Trade Union Congress, and Comrade Dennis Chuks Isichei — Secretary, Joint Negotiating Council, who will serve as Secretary to the panel

The panel was given two weeks to complete its assignment and report its findings.

The government also commiserated with the deceased’s family and assured civil servants of its commitment to the safety of the workplace and the protection of the dignity and sanctity of human life.

The police investigation and the administrative inquiry are expected to provide further information on the circumstances surrounding Adeda’s death.