The family of Pius Etim, who died at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on Thursday after a mast collapsed and landed on him, has received sorrow and condolences from Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo.
A praise night that was scheduled as part of events to commemorate Governor Monday Okpehbolo’s 100 days in office was interrupted when the mast fell on the guy during a strong wind that preceded a heavy downpour.
It was reported that the man was the venue decorator’s driver. When he attempted to save the decorative supplies, he was reportedly killed by the mast.
In a statement released on Friday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, Okpebholo described the tragedy as “unfortunate, sad and painful.”
He added, “I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a young man, Pius Etim, during the intense rainfall and collapse of a mast at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City.”
“On behalf of the people of Edo State, I offer my deepest sympathies to the family and loved ones of Pius Etim. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this period of grief.”
The governor, however, disapproved of the mindset of opposition PDP leaders and members, who celebrated Etim’s untimely death on social media on Thursday night.
According to Governor Okpebholo, the PDP in Edo State has lost touch with the people it formerly governed, as seen by its callousness and lack of sympathy for the deceased’s family.
The statement added, “Preliminary investigations show that the collapsed mast was erected by the administration of Godwin Obaseki, which did a shabby job.”
“The poor job executed by the administration of Obaseki at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, which led to the unfortunate death of Pius Etim, will be investigated.”
“The contractors who handled the poor job, if found liable, will face the full wrath of the law,” he added.
