Ogun Government Takes Action Against Assault on Town Planning Officers -See More

The Ogun State government has arraigned Abdulazeez Anidugbe and Ibikunle Kazeem before the Magistrate Court in Isabo, Abeokuta, on charges of assault and obstruction of public officers. The two men are accused of attacking officials from the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Authority (OGPDPA) during their official duties in Abeokuta.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Physical Planning and Urban Development, Anidugbe and Kazeem allegedly incited a mob to assault the officers after they removed an illegal structure erected on a right-of-way. The assault occurred while the officers were carrying out their responsibilities as part of the Zonal Authority.

This incident follows a similar case involving popular musician Idris Okikiola (also known as Portable), who faced widespread criticism after assaulting government officers during their duties. Portable and some of his associates were later arraigned in the Magistrate Court but were granted bail.

In response to the recent assault, TPl. Itunu Jolaoluwa, the Acting General Manager of the OGPDPA, condemned the actions of the accused, stating that such behavior violates Section 44 of the Ogun State Planning and Development Permit Regulation, 2022. Jolaoluwa emphasized that government officials should be allowed to carry out their legitimate duties without fear of harassment, abuse, or assault.

She urged the public to forward any complaints to the relevant authorities instead of resorting to violence against staff.