Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the immediate suspension of all consultancy services and related providers within the state’s public service. The suspension is in effect pending the submission of a report by the Review Committee set up by the governor.
This directive was communicated in a notice issued on Monday by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, who emphasized that all financial transactions and services with affected consultants and service providers must be suspended immediately.
“All Accounting Officers, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are required to take note of this directive and ensure strict compliance,” the statement read.
In a separate announcement, the Edo State Government also addressed concerns over the illegal collection of revenue by unlicensed agents and touts operating across the state.
“The Edo State Government has been alerted to the ongoing activities of unlicensed individuals collecting revenue across the state without the proper authority,” the statement said. “The suspension of all non-commissioned revenue officials remains in place. From now on, only statutory and licensed revenue collectors are authorized to collect revenue on behalf of the government, particularly in motor parks and other commercial areas.”
The public was urged to report any unlicensed agents to the police, with the government warning that anyone found guilty would face arrest and prosecution.
“The government is committed to enforcing the law and will not tolerate illegal revenue collection. Those involved in such activities, along with their sponsors, are hereby warned not to test the government’s resolve to protect the lives and property of Edo State residents,” the statement concluded.
