The Delta State Council of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) has called for a thorough, transparent and impartial investigation into the death of an Assistant Director in the state Ministry of Education, following reports of an alleged physical altercation involving a serving commissioner.
In a statement signed by its State Chairman, Comrade Wilson Asekutu, the union expressed sadness over the death and condoled with the deceased’s family, colleagues, friends and associates.
The TUC said it was concerned about the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly reports alleging that a physical altercation occurred before the public servant’s death.
However, the union urged its members and the general public to remain calm and allow the relevant authorities to establish the facts.
“At this sensitive stage, however, it is important that all parties exercise restraint and allow the relevant authorities to establish the facts,” the union said.
The TUC called for a comprehensive investigation that would, where relevant, examine events leading up to the incident, witness accounts, medical records, documentary evidence and other materials that could help determine what happened.
The union also appealed to individuals connected with the matter to avoid statements or actions capable of interfering with the investigation, influencing witnesses or escalating tensions.
According to the TUC, any person found culpable should be dealt with in accordance with due process and applicable law.
The union said it would engage relevant authorities and stakeholders to seek clarification on the circumstances surrounding the death and would continue to monitor developments.
It also assured workers in the Ministry of Education, particularly the deceased’s colleagues, that it would pursue all lawful and legitimate avenues to ensure that their concerns were properly represented.
The TUC stressed that its call for calm should not be interpreted as indifference, noting that the death of a worker under circumstances that have raised concerns requires appropriate attention.
“The family deserves answers, workers deserve a safe and dignified working environment, and the public deserves confidence in the ability of institutions to establish the facts and uphold the rule of law,” the union said.
The Delta TUC therefore urged the state government and other relevant authorities to treat the matter seriously and ensure that the circumstances surrounding the death are thoroughly investigated, with appropriate action taken based on the findings.
The union reiterated its commitment to pursuing justice and accountability through lawful means while calling for calm, restraint and unity.
