The Edo State Government has launched an official inquiry into the death of David Yelsa, a forklift operator employed at the Rongtai Group of Companies in Utesi, Ikpoba-Okha. Following the fatality, the local community staged protests that escalated into the destruction of factory vehicles and equipment. The violence began after residents suspected the firm of attempting to remove the deceased worker’s body without notifying his family or local authorities.
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, acting on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo, inspected the site and met with company management and community representatives. During the visit, Idahosa raised concerns regarding the lack of evidence at the scene, noting that the forklift had been moved prior to inspection and that there was a lack of CCTV footage. Company officials claimed the death occurred when the forklift overturned at a culvert, but these inconsistencies have prompted the state to launch a multi-ministry probe.
The Managing Director of Rongtai, Liu Chang, expressed regret over the extensive damage caused to their facilities. Meanwhile, local government officials and community leaders acknowledged that language barriers may have exacerbated the tension. The state government has pledged a comprehensive investigation by the Ministries of Health, Labour, and Public Safety to uncover the truth while calling for ongoing peace in the region.
