Ogun state government, has suspended the Commissioner for Environment, Abiodun Abudu-Balogun for alleged sexual harassment of an underaged girl.
The suspension of the Commissioner, who was alleged to have sexually harassed a 16-year- old Barakat Melojuekun, will last until the conclusion of an independent investigation of the allegation.
A statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi on Sunday said the suspension is to enable him to cooperate fully with the independent investigation being carried out by the Police.
“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.
“The government assures the public that it will do everything to ensure that justice is served in this case.
“In the meantime, the suspended Commissioner has been directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment,” the statement reads.