Delta Suspends Works Commissioner Reuben Izeze Over Assault on Governor’s Aide

The Delta State Government has announced the indefinite suspension of its Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Reuben Izeze. The drastic move comes amid serious allegations linking the commissioner to the violent assault of Simon “Temple” Mudi, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Protocol.

The Violent Clash at PTI Effurun

The controversy erupted following an All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders’ meeting held at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Effurun.

A viral video captured a chaotic scene showing men chasing Mudi across the premises with bottles and plastic chairs. The confrontation quickly sparked public outrage across the state, prompting the government to step in.

Giving Room for Impartial Investigation

In an official statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, the administration clarified that the indefinite suspension takes immediate effect.

The state government emphasized that the decision was taken to:

• Prevent interference: Allow security agencies unfettered access to conduct an unbiased, thorough investigation.
• Uphold the rule of law: Reinforce the principle that no public official or state institution is above the law.
• Protect public safety: Maintain civil order and protect the sanctity of human lives regardless of the political personalities involved.

Wider Pattern of Political Intimidation?

While the suspension aims to de-escalate tensions, prominent political figures are warning that the altercation points to a much deeper issue.

Former Deputy Senate President Ovie Omo-Agege has linked the PTI incident to a broader, disturbing trend in the state. He recalled an earlier incident where the Delta governorship candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Chris Iyovwaye, was reportedly blocked by armed hoodlums from entering his own hometown.

According to observers, these recurring confrontations suggest that a calculated pattern of political intimidation and thuggery may be creeping into Delta State politics ahead of the 2027 general elections—far beyond an isolated internal party squabble.