Tragedy has struck in Delta State as Chief (Mrs.) Shimite Winifred, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Trade and Export, has reportedly died under circumstances linked to domestic violence. Her passing, which has sent shockwaves across the state and beyond, is being alleged to have followed a confrontation with her husband, Pastor David Favour.
While the details of the incident remain sketchy as of press time, reports suggest that a domestic altercation turned fatal. Human rights activist and fellow government aide, Harrison Gwamnishu, confirmed the heartbreaking news in a Facebook post on Monday, April 21, 2025. Another activist, Comrade Victor Ojie, popularly known as Wong Box, also confirmed the development and used the occasion to advocate against remaining in abusive marriages. “Marriage is not by force oh. It’s better to lose your marriage than to lose your life oh,” he wrote.
In a related development, Hon. Oge Okonkwo claimed in a Facebook post that Shimite’s husband has been arrested in connection with her death. Tameta Sunday, a personal aide to the late Winifred, also confirmed the tragic news, alleging that her husband was responsible. “It’s very difficult to type RIP boss, knowing fully well an ugly soul called pastor with a gentle look as a husband cut all the positive plans we had together,” he lamented.
The late Chief Shimite Winifred was a renowned trade and economic development expert. She served as the Coordinator of the Delta State UNIDO Centre and was the state’s focal person for the implementation of the Federal Government’s Social Investment Programme. She also produced the popular TV documentary African Pot, which highlighted traditional cuisine, tourism, and culture. Her work extended to national and international development platforms, including USAID/NEXTT and FESECA, and she served as a contributing editor for media outlets such as Daily Trust and Leadership.
As tributes continue to pour in, many voices are rising in a renewed call for awareness and urgent action against domestic abuse, urging women in violent relationships to prioritize their safety over societal expectations.