The Delta State Government has suspended its Commissioner for Works (Highway and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze, with immediate effect, following allegations that he assaulted the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Protocol, Mr Simon Mudi, also known as Temple. The suspension, announced on Monday, is indefinite and takes effect immediately, according to an official statement by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu.
Reason for Suspension
The government stated that the decision was taken to allow security agencies to conduct a thorough and unhindered investigation into the alleged incident, which reportedly occurred at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Effurun, Delta State. Authorities emphasized that removing Izeze from his post during the probe is necessary to prevent any possibility of interference with the investigative process.
The suspension is described as a precautionary administrative measure and does not constitute a finding of guilt against the commissioner. The government reiterated that public safety and the upholding of law and order remain central to the administration's priorities, adding that no public official would be placed above the law. The state remains committed to protecting human life and the integrity of its institutions.
Background on Commissioner Izeze
Reuben Izeze represents the Ughelli South constituency in the Delta State House of Assembly and was appointed to his ministerial role by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. The exact circumstances of the alleged confrontation between Izeze and Mudi at the PTI in Effurun are expected to be fully examined by the security agencies handling the case.
No timeline was provided for the duration of the investigation, and the government did not indicate whether Izeze would return to his role once the probe is concluded. The Delta State Government has not released further details regarding the incident, but the suspension signals a firm stance on accountability among public officials.
