Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has ordered the immediate and indefinite suspension of the Commissioner for Works (Highway and Urban Roads), Hon. Izeze Rume Yakubu Reuben, amid an ongoing law enforcement investigation into a high-profile assault.
​The executive order was officially conveyed on Monday, August 10, 2026, through a public release issued from Asaba by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu. The disciplinary action stems from a recent violent clash that occurred on the grounds of the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI) in Effurun, Delta State.
​During a political gathering held at the institute, the Senior Special Assistant on Protocol to the Governor, Mr. Simon Mudi (popularly known as “Temple”), was set upon by an armed mob, struck with bottles and chairs, and left with severe head injuries that required emergency medical treatment. Video footage of the incident went viral, prompting widespread calls for accountability.
​Addressing the decision to step down the cabinet member, Dr. Kingsley Eze Emu clarified that the administrative sanction was necessary to protect the integrity of the ongoing police investigation.
​”The suspension is to enable the security agencies to carry out an unbiased investigation of allegations associating him with the assault on the Senior Special Assistant on Protocol, Mr. Simon Mudi, also known as Temple, at the Petroleum Training Institute (PTI), Effurun, recently,” stated Dr. Kingsley Emu.
​The Delta State Government underscored several key parameters regarding the move:
The suspension removes any potential conflict of interest or political leverage while security agencies examine the commissioner’s alleged involvement.
The administration reiterated its firm stance on maintaining public order, upholding the rule of law, and protecting human life. The state government affirmed that its commitment to justice applies unconditionally, including in matters involving top government personnel or state institutions.
​Security agencies in Delta State have commenced full investigative proceedings into the incident, with the commissioner’s suspension remaining indefinite pending the outcome of the probe.
