Civil Defence officer dies in hit-and-run near Cross River Secretariat

…Family Seeks Justice

By Ike Uchechukwu, Calabar

CALABAR — A Nigerian Civil Defence officer, Christopher Ashibi, has died following a hit-and-run incident near the Cross River State Secretariat on April 11, 2026, sparking calls for a thorough investigation by his family.

Ashibi, described by relatives as a devoted husband and father, was reportedly struck while walking along the roadside shortly after leaving a private engagement. He was not on official duty at the time.

His wife, Mrs. Deborah Ashibi, said the incident occurred as her husband walked by the roadside.

“He was not crossing the road, he was just walking by the side when the vehicle hit him,” she said.

Eyewitnesses, as relayed by the family, alleged that the vehicle involved did not stop immediately after the impact. One witness claimed the driver briefly returned to the scene before leaving again.

“The driver came back, looked at him, saw that he was still breathing and drove off,” the witness alleged.

Mrs. Ashibi said her husband was left unattended for some time after the incident, adding that he was still alive shortly after being found.

“He was still breathing. If he had been rushed to the hospital immediately, he might have survived,” she said.

By the time assistance arrived, Ashibi was confirmed dead, and his body was later taken to a mortuary in Obanliko.

The deceased officer’s eldest son, Shedrack Ashibi, said the family has been devastated by the loss.

“I never knew my father would leave us so early. He was the one supporting everything for us,” he said.

Ashibi leaves behind a wife and children aged between six and 19 years. The family says they are now facing severe financial hardship following his death.

Mrs. Ashibi, who is currently unemployed, said the responsibility of caring for the children alone is overwhelming.

“How do I cater for my children?” she asked. “I want the government to help us. I don’t have work.”

She appealed for government support, including possible employment assistance, to help sustain the family and educate the children.

At the time of filing this report, there has been no official statement from the Cross River State Government or relevant authorities on the incident.

The Civil Defence officer was said to have served under a government-linked office in the state, where colleagues described him as diligent and committed.

The circumstances surrounding the incident remain under review as the family continues to seek answers and support following the tragedy.

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