By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
Benin City was on Thursday thrown into grief as the Edo State Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Gbenga Agun, died suddenly while attending a public function.
Agun had just finished presenting a goodwill message at a programme organised by the International Association of World Peace Advocates (IAWPA) when tragedy struck.
Eyewitnesses said the commandant slumped without warning in full view of dignitaries and guests at the Bishop Kelly Pastoral Centre.
Attempts by those present to revive him at the scene failed, creating a tense atmosphere at the event.
He was rushed to the Military Base Hospital in Benin City, but doctors there pronounced him dead on arrival.
The shocking twist is that Agun was one of the key figures scheduled to be honoured with an award at the same ceremony.
His untimely death sent ripples through the security community, leaving colleagues, friends, and family in disbelief.
Tributes are already pouring in, describing him as a committed officer who dedicated his career to safeguarding lives and property.
The NSCDC is yet to issue an official statement, but sources say arrangements are underway to formally announce his passing.
The atmosphere in Benin City remains heavy, as residents and stakeholders reflect on the sudden loss of one of the state’s top security chiefs.