The Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has suspended the state’s Commissioner for Environment, Abiodun Abudu-Balogun over allegation of sexual harassment.
The suspended commissioner was also directed to hand over to the permanent secretary in the ministry.
In a viral video on social media, 16-year-old Barakat Melojuekun had accused Abudu-Balogun of attempting to sexually harass her at his Ibiade residence in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area of the state. The incident was said to have happened on new year eve.
The commissioner had in a statement described the allegation as cheap blackmail targeted at him by political foes.
In a statement made available to journalists by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, said the incumbent administration in the state has zero tolerance for gender-based violence, noting it will ensure justice is done in the matter.
He added that the suspension was to enable the Commissioner fully cooperate with the independent investigation being carried out by the police.
Ogun government said: “Whilst taking cognizance of the principle of a suspect being presumed innocent until proven guilty and the public statement issued by Hon. Abudu-Balogun denying the allegation, as a government with zero tolerance for gender-based violence and indeed any criminality, the suspension is a further demonstration of the commitment of Prince Dapo Abiodun Administration to fairness, equity, justice and the rule of law, no matter who is involved.”
