Agboje Chuks
A fresh controversy is unfolding within Delta State’s political circle as Chief Benjamin Aliogo, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Political matters and a traditional chief of Otolokpo Kingdom in Ika North East Local Government Area, has publicly accused the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Kingsley Emu, of ordering the suspension of his salary without prior notice or explanation.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba on Monday, Chief Aliogo expressed concern over what he described as an arbitrary and unjustified halt to his official earnings, revealing that he has not been paid for over three months despite remaining actively engaged in his official duties.
“I have not received my salary for three consecutive months now, and no one has explained why,” “This action is not only unjust but also completely unwarranted.”
Chief Aliogo hinted at possible political motivations behind the development, suggesting that the influence of certain local political figures may be at play. In particular, he pointed to the alleged involvement of a certain man in Ward 14, AIG Igbodo (rtd.), who he believes may have orchestrated the salary stoppage for reasons yet unclear.
“The silence and lack of communication surrounding this issue is troubling,” he added. “I am committed to serving this administration, and I find it disheartening that such punitive measures can be taken without due process.”
Although he stopped short of making direct accusations, sources familiar with the matter speculated that Chief Aliogo’s close political alignment with Barr. Eugene Azuka Uzum — a prominent member of the Delta Unity Group (DUG) who defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) about 18months ago— may have triggered internal friction and retaliatory actions within the ruling circle.
Chief Aliogo, however, was quick to absolve Governor Oborevwori of any personal involvement, expressing confidence in the governor’s sense of fairness and leadership integrity.
“I strongly believe that His Excellency is not aware of this development,” he said. “Governor Oborevwori is a leader known for justice and equity, and I do not believe he would support political victimization in any form.”
In a related development, Chief Aliogo used the platform to commend Governor Oborevwori for what he described as a bold and strategic political move — the governor’s recent defection to the APC.
“I want to publicly applaud our amiable Governor for his courageous and well-considered decision to join the APC,” he remarked. “It is a forward-thinking step that holds great promise for Delta State’s political and developmental trajectory.”
As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Kingsley Emu, for comments on the allegations, was unsuccessful, and no official statement has been issued from his office.
