The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Delta State have directed workers to resume duties on Monday, following the intervention of the State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, over the death of Mr. Adeda Ekwevugbe, a Deputy Director in the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.
The decision followed a meeting between the organised labour leadership and Governor Oborevwori, as well as the constitution of an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of the civil servant.
In a statement, the NLC Chairman in Delta State, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, said the unions had taken the decision in view of the steps already initiated by the state government and the ongoing investigation into the incident.
Ofobruku said, “Following the timely intervention of His Excellency, the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, and the constitution of an Administrative Panel of Inquiry, organised labour has directed all workers to resume duties on Monday by 8:00 a.m.”
He disclosed that the criminal aspect of the matter was also being investigated by the appropriate security agencies, adding that some arrests had already been made.
According to him, “We have met with the State Governor, and the criminal angle is being investigated. Arrests have been made, and all those found culpable will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.”
The NLC chairman urged workers to remain calm and allow the relevant authorities and the Administrative Panel to conduct their investigations, assuring that the labour unions would closely monitor the process.
He said, “We will ensure that no stone is left unturned. We will collaborate with the Panel of Inquiry to ensure that justice is served and that whoever is found culpable faces the full weight of the law.”
Ofobruku expressed appreciation to workers across the state for their solidarity over the incident and assured the family of the deceased of the unions’ continued support.
He also urged workers to remain diligent and committed to their responsibilities, stressing the need for effective service delivery as normal work resumes.
The TUC Chairman in the state, Comrade Willson Asekutu, also joined Ofobruku in directing workers to resume duties by 8:00 a.m. on Monday, while urging them to remain calm and allow the investigative process to take its course.
The labour leaders further commended Governor Oborevwori for his prompt intervention and commitment to ensuring that the circumstances surrounding the death of the Deputy Director are thoroughly investigated.
