Delta State Governor loses aide to domestic violence

The Special Adviser to the Governor of Delta State on Trade and Export, Chief Mrs Shimite Winifred, has passed away.

The renowned Trade and Economic expert allegedly died due to domestic violence. She had a confrontation with her husband, Pastor David Favour, which reportedly led to her death.

Winifred was reportedly Killed by her husband, Pastor Favour, who is currently in police custody.

Late Winifred was the Coordinator of the Delta State UNIDO Centre. She was the focal person for the implementation of the Federal Government’s Social Investment Programme in Delta State. She produced and presented “African Pot”, a TV documentary that promoted traditional African cuisine, tourism and culture.

The deceased was a member of the Steering Committee of USAID/NEXTT (Nigerian Expanded Trade and Transport) – Lakaji Trade Corridor. She was a member of the Board of Directors of FESECA – Foundation for Economic Change in Africa.

She served as Contributing Editor on Travel and Tourism with Daily Trust, Leadership and others.

Reactions have trailed her death with many advising women to walk out of abusive marriage.

Meanwhile, the Delta State Police Command said it has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death.

The Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, Bright Edafe, confirmed the death and the ongoing investigation.

Edafe stated that Winifred was “confirmed dead at the hospital where she was taken.”

A key aspect of the investigation involves her husband, he said.

According to Edafe, “He (the husband) was the one who called to report that his wife died early this morning and that he was receiving threats from her family, who feared he might be attacked. It was on this basis that we went to his house and brought him in for his own safety.”

However, the situation became more complex when “the deceased’s family later lodged a formal complaint with the police,” Edafe revealed.

In their complaint, the family expressed suspicion that the husband may have played a role in Shimite’s death.

In response to these concerns, the police are proceeding with a thorough investigation.

“We are currently investigating,” Edafe stated. “In situations like this, only an autopsy can determine whether the death was natural or due to other causes.”

The police have indicated that they will release further updates as the investigation progresses.