The Edo State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Agun Gbenga, on Thursday slumped and died during an event in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Gbenga, who had just delivered a goodwill message at a programme organised by the International Association of World Peace Advocates, reportedly slumped on his seat at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre.
According to eyewitnesses, efforts to resuscitate him at the venue proved abortive. He was later rushed to the Military Hospital in Benin, where doctors confirmed him dead.
Attendees at the event were thrown into shock, with many running out of the hall while discussing what could have caused the sudden death of the commandant, who, moments earlier, appeared to be in good health.
An eyewitness, Odion Ugbe, who spoke with PUNCH Metro, described the deceased as a gentleman and a dedicated officer.
Ugbe said, “It is unfortunate that the man had to die this way. He came into the hall full of life, but he was carried out dead. He had just read his speech, and he was sitting down when he slumped.
“People with medical experience tried to resuscitate him, but could not succeed. By the time he was taken to the military hospital, he was said to have been brought in dead by the doctor in charge.”
Ugbe further recalled meeting Gbenga at another programme the previous week, where they had a discussion on ways to make the country more secure.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the NSCDC headquarters, Afolabi Babawale, told PUNCH Metro: “Yes, it is true that we lost the Edo State Commandant this afternoon. He slumped in a function.”
