The Cross River State Government has pledged support for the family of Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps officer Christopher Ashibi, who died following a vehicle incident in Governor Bassey Otu's convoy on April 11, 2026, along Murtala Mohammed Highway in Calabar. Commissioner for Information Erasmus Ekpang confirmed that one of the vehicles in the convoy was involved, based on preliminary findings, and stated that a comprehensive investigation has been launched to determine the exact circumstances. Ekpang described the incident as unfortunate, expressing the government's condolences and affirming that Governor Otu would be fully briefed. He emphasized that due process would be followed and appropriate actions taken based on the investigation's outcome. "The security team with the governor's convoy acknowledged that an incident occurred. Investigations are ongoing to establish what truly transpired," Ekpang said. He dismissed claims of a cover-up as baseless and insensitive, asserting that the administration, led by a compassionate leader, would not neglect the deceased officer's family. The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps also confirmed Ashibi's death and disclosed that both internal and external investigations are underway to determine responsibility. Ekpang urged the public to remain calm and allow the investigative process to proceed without interference. He also highlighted the importance of road safety, particularly in relation to moving convoys.
A state government quick to pledge compassion while its governor's convoy is under investigation for a fatal incident risks conflating public relations with accountability. The promise of support to Christopher Ashibi's family means little without transparency about how a security officer died in a government convoy. When investigations involve those in power, public trust hinges on independent oversight, not statements of empathy. For now, words outweigh evidence.
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