Just 24 hours after his swearing-in, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday, announced the dissolution of all boards, agencies, and parastatals within the state public service, with immediate effect.
The dissolution also extended to all permanent secretaries appointed from outside the state civil service. The governor further instructed that all affected appointees hand over any government property in their possession to the most senior public officers in their respective ministries, departments, and agencies.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor stated, “It is hereby announced that Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the dissolution of the executives of all boards, agencies, and parastatals in the Edo State Public Service with immediate effect. All permanent secretaries appointed from outside the state civil service and all political appointees are relieved of their duties. They are to hand over all government properties to the most senior public officers in their ministries, departments, and agencies.”
In another significant move, Governor Okpebholo ordered an immediate suspension of all revenue collections in the state, particularly at motor parks, until further notice. The suspension is part of his broader review of the state’s revenue collection system, which he pledged to address soon.
“The collection of revenues in Edo State, especially in motor parks, is hereby suspended indefinitely. Anyone found collecting revenue on behalf of the state government will be arrested,” the statement read. “The Commissioner of Police is directed to ensure the enforcement of this order.”
Governor Okpebholo explained that he would soon review the issues surrounding revenue collection and issue new directives. Until then, he emphasized that no individual or group was authorized to collect revenues on behalf of the state government.
During an inspection tour of the Upper Mission Extension Road near Aduwawa Junction and the Ramat Park axis in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo reiterated his commitment to the “Renewed Hope” agenda of President Bola Tinubu, particularly in restoring the hope of the people of Edo State. He expressed concern over the state of the roads and assured residents that immediate repairs would begin.
“I promised during the campaign that I would hit the ground running. Today, I have ordered contractors to return to the sites, and we are wasting no time,” Okpebholo said. “We have one dry season each year, and this is the time to fix the roads. Edo people can expect immediate improvements in infrastructure.”
He added, “We are committed to bringing the dividends of democracy to the people. Work will commence immediately on key roads, including the 7.5km Temboga Road, Lucky Way Junction by Aduwawa, and the Ramat Park/Slope Axis. Contractors will also mobilize to Eyaen Road and Obadan Junction along the Benin/Auchi Road.”
Governor Okpebholo’s swift actions signal his administration’s determination to address critical infrastructure issues and enhance governance in Edo State.
