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At last,Ogun govt. suspends commissioner over alleged sexual harassment

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The Dapo Abiodun -led Ogun State government has suspended the Commissioner for Environment, Mr. Abiodun Abudu-Balogun.

Mr Abudu-Balogun, as learnt was suspended from office over an allegation of sexual harassment of a 16-year-old girl identified as Barakat Mayowa Melojuekun.

According to a statement issued on Sunday in Abeokuta, the Secretary to the State Government, Mr Tokunbo Talabi, announced the suspension of the commissioner pending the conclusion of an independent investigation into the allegation.

Talabi, informed that the state government decided to suspend Abudu-Balogun to enable him to cooperate fully with the independent investigation being carried out by the police.

“Whilst taking cognisance of the principle of a suspect being presumed innocent until proven guilty and the public statement issued by Honourable 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 Dapo Abiodun administration to fairness, equity, justice and the rule of law, no matter who is involved”.

He assured the residents that the state government would do everything necessary to ensure that justice was served in the case.

He disclosed that the suspended commissioner has been directed to hand over to the Permanent Secretary at the State Ministry of Environment.

Barakat, a secondary school student in her final year, had accused the suspended commissioner of attempting to rape her.

She said she met the commissioner on Tuesday last week, but the incident occurred on New Year’s Eve.

The victim said she was waiting for a motorcycle to convey her to the office of the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC) to register for the National Identification Number (NIN).

While waiting at a park in Ogun Waterside Local Government Area, the commissioner who was said to be driving stopped the car and offered her a lift, but she declined.

Barakat alleged that she had been receiving calls from an unknown person who claimed to be the commissioner’s aide and two days later, she was reportedly taken to Abudu-Balogun’s residence by her uncle.

Although she stated that her uncle might be unaware of the commissioner’s intention as he took her to his house to operate a computer, she claimed she was lured to his bedroom.

The victim said she was left alone and allowed to go after she shouted at the top of her voice, and later narrated her ordeal to her parents who reported the case at the police station.

The Area Commander of Police in Abigi is said to be handling the case and the police have promised to make the outcome of police public.

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Edo Killings: Akpabio Condemns Attack, Demands Justice for Victims

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President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has strongly condemned the brutal killing of 16 travellers in Edo State, describing the act as senseless, barbaric, and unacceptable.

Akpabio, in a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Jackson Udom, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called for swift justice to assuage the pain of the victims’ families.

“I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the gruesome murder of 16 travellers in Edo State. This senseless act of violence is unacceptable and has no place in our society,” he said.

The Senate President urged security agencies to conduct a thorough investigation and bring the perpetrators to book without delay.

“I condemn in very strong terms this heinous crime and urge the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. Justice must be served to prevent further occurrences and reassure Nigerians of their safety.”

Akpabio further emphasised the need for unity in the face of violence, calling on Nigerians to resist divisions that could arise from such tragic events.

“As a people, we must work together to promote peace, unity, and understanding. We cannot afford to let such acts of violence divide us or undermine our collective efforts to build a better Nigeria.”

He extended his condolences to the bereaved families, the government, and the people of Edo State, praying for divine comfort in their time of grief.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the victims, the government, and the people of Edo State. May God grant the departed peaceful rest and give their loved ones the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

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Eid-ul-Fitr: Oseni Urges Muslims to Uphold Ramadan Virtues, Calls for National Unity

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As Muslims around the world celebrate Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan, the lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Engr. Aderemi Oseni has urged the Muslim faithful to uphold the virtues of Ramadan in their daily lives.

According to a statement on Sunday by his media aide, Idowu Ayodele, the lawmaker congratulated the Muslim Ummah on the successful completion of the month-long fasting and encouraged them to reflect on the values of sacrifice, self-discipline, and devotion to God, which Ramadan represents.

He emphasised that Ramadan is not only about fasting but also about fostering compassion, patience, and love for one another—values he described as crucial for national unity and development.

“As we celebrate this year’s Eid-ul-Fitr, I encourage my Muslim brothers and sisters to continue embodying the noble virtues of Ramadan. Let the spirit of sacrifice, empathy, and community service guide our actions beyond this season,” the statement read.

Oseni, who chairs the House Committee on the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), also underscored the importance of national cohesion, urging Nigerians to work together to promote peace and stability. He called on leaders at all levels of government to implement policies that address economic challenges, security concerns, and infrastructural development.

He further reassured his constituents in Ibarapa East/Ido of his commitment to quality representation, pledging to continue advocating for policies that prioritise their welfare and development.

Oseni also appealed to religious leaders to use their platforms to preach unity and patriotism, stating that Nigeria’s progress depends on the collective efforts of its citizens in fostering tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

“Eid is a time of joy, reflection, and gratitude. Let us celebrate responsibly while remembering to extend kindness to the less privileged. May Almighty Allah accept our prayers and grant our nation lasting peace and prosperity,” he added.

 

 

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Eid-el-Fitr: Oyo APC Chieftain, Oladiran Alabi, Greets Muslims, Calls for Unity

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A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State and former House of Assembly candidate for Ibadan South-West Constituency I, Hon. Oladiran Alabi, has congratulated Muslims on the occasion of Eid-el-Fitr, urging Nigerians to embrace unity and peaceful coexistence.

In a statement on Sunday, Alabi commended the Muslim faithful for their devotion and sacrifices during the holy month of Ramadan, stressing the need to uphold the values of love, tolerance, and compassion beyond the fasting period.

He said, “The end of Ramadan is a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment to the principles of Islam. I felicitate with my Muslim brothers and sisters and pray that Almighty Allah accepts their supplications and rewards them abundantly.”

Alabi also emphasised the importance of unity in addressing Nigeria’s socio-political and economic challenges, urging leaders and citizens alike to foster harmony irrespective of religious and ethnic differences.

“Our strength as a nation lies in our unity. It is imperative that we work together to promote peace and development. I call on all Nigerians to prioritise national interest above personal or sectional gains,” he added.

He further urged political leaders to implement policies that would improve the welfare of the people, enhance economic growth, and strengthen security across the country.

The APC stalwart prayed for a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria, wishing the Muslim community a joyous and spiritually fulfilling Eid celebration.

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