Breaking: Ogun Commissioner Suspended over Alleged Sexual Harassment

Femi Ashekun/

Ogun State Government has announced the suspension from office of the Commissioner for Environment, Abiodun Abudu-Balogun, for alleged sexual harassment of an underaged girl.

The government said the suspension was to allow an independent investigation into the allegation.

The commissioner was accused of sexual harassment by a 16-year-old Barakat Melojuekun.

This was contained in a statement issued in Abeokuta today by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi.

The statement reads in part, “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.”

The suspended commissioner was also directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Environment.