CDHR Demands Probe, Suspension Of Delta Commissioner Over Deputy Director’s Death

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, Delta State Branch, has called for an independent investigation into the death of a Deputy Director in the Delta State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Adeda Ekwevugbe, following an alleged altercation involving the Commissioner for Secondary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu.

In a press statement dated September 26, 2026, and signed by Comr. Derrick Oritsematosan Agberen, State Chairman, and Comr. Nosa Overseey, Publicity Secretary, the human rights organisation said it received the report of Ekwevugbe’s death with “shock and outrage”, alleging that the incident involved the deployment of personal enforcers by the commissioner.

CDHR said the facts before it included an alleged altercation between the commissioner and the deputy director, an allegation that the commissioner deployed personal enforcers who tied up, beat and unlawfully detained Ekwevugbe, and a claim that the officer was rushed to hospital after his release, where he was confirmed dead.

The organisation stressed that the allegations required independent investigation, stating that, if established, the incident would constitute a serious violation of the law.

CDHR recalled the recent case involving another Delta State commissioner who was suspended, arrested and remanded over alleged street violence, saying that public office holders must remain subject to the law.

“A life has been lost. No title, no office, no PhD exempts anyone from the law,” the organisation said, adding that personal enforcers had no place in government.

The group called for the immediate suspension of the Commissioner for Secondary Education pending investigation.

It also demanded an independent investigation by the Nigeria Police Force, Delta State Command, the Department of State Services, DSS, and the Delta State House of Assembly.

ALSO READ: Ofe Hails Oborevwori As DESOPADEC Takes Free Medical Outreach To Koko

According to CDHR, “the Ministry cannot investigate itself,” adding that those found culpable should be arrested and prosecuted, while a judicial inquest should be conducted into the death to ensure transparency.

The organisation further called for the protection of civil servants from violence and intimidation in the course of their duties.

CDHR Delta State appealed to the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to act swiftly on the matter, stressing that justice should not only be done but should also be seen to be done.