‘He was a light’: South Africa salutes security officer and cyclist David Sejobe as he is laid to rest
“He was a light. He was a smile that lifted tired souls.” These were the heartfelt words used to describe the late security guard and cyclist David Sejobe, whose funeral was taking place in Limpopo on Saturday morning.
Family, friends and colleagues have gathered at Mukondeni Village to pay their final respects to Sejobe, 49.
Sejobe died after being struck by a vehicle in what is being investigated as a suspected hit-and-run while cycling to work along the Golden Highway in Gauteng.
Sejobe was best known for his warm greetings, which brightened the days of staff and passersby at MultiChoice headquarters in Randburg.
Mourners filled the venue to capacity to honour the much-loved security officer.
A family representative, Sephitjo Seboje, welcomed mourners but was visibly emotional.
“Death knocked on our door,” he said.
“We were informed by police officers and security guards that our beloved one had been hit by a vehicle on the road,” he said, his voice breaking.
He was unable to continue further due to his grief.
Nonhlanhla Dlala, speaking on behalf of Fidelity Services Group CEO Wahl Bartmann, delivered a touching tribute.
“Today we gather with heavy hearts to honour a man whose kindness, warmth and spirit touched every life he crossed. David was not just a security officer.”
“He was a light. He had a smile that lifted tired souls, a gentle voice that reminded us that joy is something we give freely.”
Dladla said Sejobe’s life, though short, had been full of kindness, service and love.
“As we honour him, as we mourn, let us also raise awareness about cycling.”
“David’s love for cycling was part of his identity, and his loss reminds us how important it is to protect every cyclist on our roads. May his story inspire us to slow down, look out for one another and value every life on our streets.”
“To the family, may you find comfort in knowing that the nation mourns with you. To David, thank you for the light you shed. Your spirit will live in every smile you inspire and in every life you touch. May your beautiful soul rest in peace.”
On Friday, IOL reported that the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng gathered at MultiChoice Group head offices in Randburg to honour Sejobe’s life.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the EFF described Sejobe as a hardworking and dedicated employee who tirelessly supported his family under the challenging conditions of the private security industry.
The party has long campaigned for the insourcing of security guards, arguing that outsourcing perpetuates exploitation and denies workers essential benefits.
“The treatment of security guards is a reflection of systemic injustices that must be addressed,” the statement read.
The incident has reignited criticism of the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), which the EFF alleges has failed to protect employees and ensure their pension funds are secure.
The party urged the motorist involved to come forward and assist police with their inquiries.
“The Sejobe family deserves answers and closure,” the statement said.
They also appealed to the public for any information that may help identify the driver.
simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za
IOL News