By Paul Joseph
The announcement was contained in a statement issued by the House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, who described Dunkwu’s death as a major loss to the National Assembly and the country’s legislative system.
Until his passing, Dunkwu served as Deputy Chief of Staff (Legislative) to the Speaker of the House, Abbas Tajudeen.
He was appointed to the position on June 26, 2023, where he played a key role in coordinating legislative activities and strengthening parliamentary administration within the National Assembly.
Dunkwu would have celebrated his 55th birthday on March 21, 2026.
Before his latest appointment, Dunkwu served as Special Adviser on Members’ Affairs to the Speaker of the 9th Assembly and later as Chief of Staff to former Speaker Femi Gbajabiamila.
In those roles, he earned a reputation as a loyal and diligent parliamentary aide who contributed significantly to the effectiveness of legislative leadership and internal coordination within the House.
Beyond his work in the legislature, Dunkwu was also active in Nigeria’s sporting community. He served as President of the Nigeria Aquatics Federation, where he championed the development and promotion of aquatic sports across the country.
He was also a Knight of Saint Christopher under the Anglican Communion in the Asaba Diocese.
Reacting to the development, Speaker Abbas expressed shock and deep sadness over the passing of his close aide, describing him as a dependable and committed colleague.
“Dr. Chamberlain was not just my deputy chief of staff, he was a dependable and committed ally who served diligently until his last breath,” Abbas said.
The Speaker noted that Dunkwu had been in good spirits just hours before his passing and had joined him and other colleagues at a breaking-of-fast gathering on Friday evening.
“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,” Abbas said.
He described the late Dunkwu as a man who lived a life of service and dedication to the country.
“He leaves behind a legacy of selflessness, dedication, sacrifice and responsibility. We will miss him dearly. My thoughts and prayers are with his family at this trying moment,” the Speaker added.
The Speaker later visited the family of the deceased to commiserate with his widow and children, urging them to remain strong in the face of the painful loss.
The House of Representatives also extended its condolences to the family of the late Dunkwu, the government and people of Delta State, and members of Nigeria’s aquatic sports community.
Colleagues and associates have described Dunkwu as a committed public servant whose contributions strengthened legislative administration and parliamentary governance in Nigeria.
Leave a Reply