In a shocking turn of events that has thrown Delta State into mourning and outrage, Mrs. Shimite Bello Love (née Nwakalo), a prominent political figure and Special Adviser to the Delta State Governor on Trade and Export, has tragically passed away under deeply suspicious circumstances.
Popularly known across the state and beyond as “Madam Sabificate,” Shimite reportedly died of suspected poisoning on Easter Sunday—a death that has not only devastated her family and associates but also ignited a firestorm of controversy. The man at the center of the storm is none other than her husband, Pastor David Favour Love, who has been arrested by the police following strong allegations that he may have orchestrated her untimely demise.
According to close family sources who spoke with SaharaReporters, Shimite was rushed to St. Luke’s Hospital in Asaba, where she was declared dead on arrival. Witnesses said she was found foaming at the mouth, suggesting possible ingestion of toxic substances.
Until her death, Shimite Bello was a celebrated figure in both political and entrepreneurial circles. She had previously served as the Executive Secretary of the Delta State Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency under former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa. Beyond her political career, she was the Group President and CEO of the Quintessential Group, a powerful consortium of NGOs, social enterprises, and businesses in agriculture and solid minerals.
In the 2023 PDP primaries, Shimite contested the Oshimili North Constituency seat in the Delta State House of Assembly, a move that further cemented her status as a woman of purpose and ambition.
As tributes pour in from across Nigeria, dark allegations are surfacing from within Shimite’s grieving family. A close relative revealed that she had spoken to Shimite just a day before her death and said she sounded healthy and full of life.
“I spoke with her on Saturday for over an hour. She was fine, bubbling as usual,” the relative said. “But on Sunday, I sent her Easter greetings and got no reply—that was unusual.”
Panic set in when Shimite’s housemaid reportedly contacted her elder brother, expressing grave concern after Pastor David allegedly locked her inside the house all day. The brother arrived at the home only to find his sister in distress, with foam seeping from her mouth. Despite rushing her to the hospital, it was too late.
Family members allege that Pastor David had increasingly isolated Shimite from her loved ones since their union. They describe a relationship marred by control, manipulation, and eerie spiritual influence.
“Since he came into her life, he cut her off from everyone,” said a family member. “She stopped visiting us. He wouldn’t allow her to go to the office. He even changed the names on her properties in Abuja and elsewhere to his. We believe she was under spiritual manipulation—possibly even hypnotised.”
Another family source added, “He was always with her, like a shadow. What kind of love is that? Who locks their wife inside the house on Easter Sunday? He called himself her spiritual father. She would always say, ‘My husband is a pastor. He sees everything.’ It’s painful that such a brilliant woman had to learn the hard way.”
Sources close to the family described Pastor David as “jealous,” “possessive,” and “deeply insecure” about Shimite’s achievements, influence, and striking beauty.
“That man had nothing when he met her. He lived off her success. It’s clear he couldn’t handle her light. And now—she’s gone.”
Efforts to reach the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, were unsuccessful as of press time. However, police sources confirm that Pastor David is in custody and that a full investigation into the circumstances of Shimite’s death is underway.
Her body has since been deposited at a mortuary, with autopsy reports and forensic examinations expected to shed more light on the tragic mystery.
As Delta State reels from the loss of one of its brightest stars, many are calling for justice—not only to honour her memory but to serve as a warning against the silent plague of domestic abuse cloaked in religious and romantic manipulation.
Shimite Bello was more than just a politician; she was a beacon of hope, empowerment, and resilience for countless young women in Delta State and beyond. Her legacy, though cruelly cut short, remains etched in the hearts of those she touched with her brilliance, vision, and relentless pursuit of progress.
Now, all eyes remain on law enforcement as the quest for justice begins in earnest.
PIONEER NEWS 