Special Adviser to Delta State’s Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Trade and Export, Chief Love Shimite, has died.
She died in the early hours of Easter Monday after what sources described as a brief illness.
The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear and her husband Pastor David Favour Love has been taken in by the police in the state.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Delta State Command, Mr. Bright Edafe, said Shimite was confirmed dead at the hospital where she was taken.
Edafe also revealed that her husband has been placed in protective custody, not under arrest, following threats reportedly made against him.
Popularly known as “Madam Sabificate,” Shimite passed away on Easter Sunday.
Witnesses said she was found foaming at the mouth before being rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital in Asaba, where she was confirmed dead.
Shimite had a long career in public service, including her time as Executive Secretary of the Delta State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency under former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa.
She also led the Quintessential Group, which focused on agriculture and solid minerals, and in 2023, she contested the Oshimili North seat in the Delta State House of Assembly primaries under the PDP.
A family member said Shimite was full of life the day before she died.
“She was vibrant when we spoke on Saturday. But on Sunday, she didn’t reply to my Easter message. That wasn’t like her,” the relative said.
Trouble reportedly started when her maid called Shimite’s brother, saying she had been locked in all day.
When he got to the house, he found Shimite unconscious with foam at her mouth.
Despite rushing her to the hospital, it was too late.
Family members also claim that Pastor David had isolated Shimite from her loved ones and taken control of her life and property.
Edafe said: “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, Edafe disclosed that the deceased’s family later lodged a formal complaint with the police, expressing suspicion that the husband may have had a role in her death.
He added: “We are currently investigating. In situations like this, only an autopsy can determine whether the death was natural or due to other causes.”
The police say further updates will follow as investigations progress.
