The Commissioner for Environment in Ogun State, Abiodun Abudu-Balogun, has just being suspended by the State Government from office for allegedly sexually harassing a young girl who is also a minor.
The government has noted that the suspension will last pending the conclusion of a thorough and all-round investigation into the allegations levelled against the Commissioner.
The Commissioner who was alleged of sexually harassing a 16-year-old Barakat Melojuekun has though released a statement denying the allegations levelled against his person.
In a statement issued in Abeokuta on Sunday by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, said the suspension of the Commissioner 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 possible to ensure that justice is served in this case.
Meanwhile, the suspended Commissioner has been directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment.”
He said in his statement.