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

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…Family Seeks Justice

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By Ike Uchechukwu, Calabar

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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.

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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.

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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.

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

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

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

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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.

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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.

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

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