The Edo State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Agun Gbenga, tragically slumped and died on Thursday while attending an event in Benin City, the state capital.
Gbenga collapsed on his seat shortly after delivering a goodwill message at a programme organised by the International Association of World Peace Advocates, held at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre, Benin City.
Eyewitnesses said efforts to revive him at the venue proved abortive before he was rushed to the Military Hospital, Benin, where doctors confirmed him dead.
The sudden incident threw the gathering into confusion, as stunned participants ran out of the hall, discussing what might have caused the unexpected death.
An eyewitness, Odion Ugbe, who described the late commandant as a gentleman dedicated to the service of the nation, recounted the moment:
“It is unfortunate that the man had to die this way. He came into the hall full of life, but he was carried out lifeless. He had just read his speech and was sitting down when he slumped. Medical personnel tried to resuscitate him, but it was not successful. By the time he got to the military hospital, the doctor said he was brought in dead.”
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for NSCDC headquarters, Afolabi Babawale, said:
“Yes, it is true that we lost the Edo State Commandant this afternoon. He slumped during a function.”