The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed shock and sadness over the death of party chieftain and President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, Dr. Chamberlain Dunkwu.
Dunkwu died in the early hours of Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the age of 54 after a brief illness.
In a condolence message signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the ruling party described the late politician as a loyal and energetic member who contributed immensely to the growth of the party in his native Ika Federal Constituency of Delta State and beyond.
According to the APC, Dunkwu lived a life devoted to service and philanthropy.
The party said: “Dr. Dunkwu lived a vibrant life of service and philanthropy that touched many within and beyond his homeland. His exit has created a yawning void that will be difficult to fill.”
The APC prayed that God would grant his immediate family and members of the party the strength to bear the loss.
Federation announces death
Earlier, the Nigeria Aquatics Federation confirmed Dunkwu’s death in a statement signed by its Secretary General, Taiwo Oriss.
The federation said it received the news “in total submission to the will of Almighty God,” describing the loss as painful to the sporting community.
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It noted that before his death, Dunkwu had sponsored the second edition of the “Swim to the Future” programme, a talent discovery event scheduled to take place on Saturday at the National Stadium Swimming Pool, Package B, in Abuja.
The body prayed that God would grant his family, the National Assembly, the federation and the entire sports community the fortitude to bear the loss.
Abbas expresses shock
Reacting to the development, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, described the death of his Deputy Chief of Staff (Legislative) as devastating.
In a statement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Abbas said Dunkwu was a dependable and committed ally who served diligently until his last breath.
The Speaker recalled that the late official had joined him and other colleagues at a Ramadan fast-breaking on Friday evening, only hours before his death.
“This is indeed a moment of grief for me, my colleagues, his family and the staff in my office as we mourn the death of this wonderful human being. This is one death too many,” Abbas said.
He added that Dunkwu lived a life of service to humanity and the nation, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, sacrifice and responsibility.
Background
Dunkwu hailed from Uteh Okpu community in Ika North East Local Government Area of Delta State.
He was appointed Deputy Chief of Staff (Legislative) to the Speaker on June 26, 2023, and had previously served as Special Adviser on Members’ Affairs to the Speaker of the 9th Assembly and Chief of Staff to the current Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
His sudden death has drawn tributes from the political and sports communities across the country.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
