The Delta State Government has indefinitely suspended the Commissioner for Works (Highway and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze, over allegations linking him to the assault of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s Senior Special Assistant on Protocol, Simon Mudi.
The government announced the suspension on Tuesday following the violent disruption of an All Progressives Congress leadership meeting at the Petroleum Training Institute in Effurun, Delta State. The Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, announced the decision in a statement. According to the state government, the suspension will allow security agencies to investigate the allegations without interference.
Government explains suspension
The government said the action was necessary to protect the integrity of the investigation and ensure due process. It also reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, law and order and the protection of human life.
The state government stressed that the suspension should not be seen as a declaration of guilt against the commissioner. Meanwhile, a High Court sitting in Effurun has reportedly remanded Izeze for 14 days over the alleged assault. The court order came shortly before the governor approved his suspension. The state government had earlier condemned the violence and directed security agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible. Reports also linked the commissioner to the violence surrounding the meeting.
Investigation to determine what happened
The state government said relevant security agencies would conduct an impartial investigation into the allegations. It added that the administration would continue to uphold the rule of law, regardless of the status of anyone involved. The suspension is expected to remain in place while the investigation and legal proceedings continue. The development has drawn attention to the growing political tension in Delta State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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