BENIN CITY: In a bold move to restructure the state’s governance, Governor Monday Okpebholo has dissolved the executives of all boards, agencies, and parastatals in Edo State’s public service, effective immediately.
In addition, the newly inaugurated governor has relieved all political appointees and permanent secretaries appointed from outside the state’s public service of their duties.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary outlined the sweeping changes, emphasizing that the affected appointees are required to hand over all government properties in their possession to the most senior public officer in their respective ministries, departments, and agencies.
The governor’s move is part of a broader effort to reshape the leadership structure of the state following his swearing-in ceremony on Tuesday. Okpebholo, alongside his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, took the oath of office at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, marking the end of Godwin Obaseki’s eight-year administration.
In another significant development, Okpebholo has ordered the immediate and indefinite suspension of all revenue collections across the state, particularly in motor parks and other public spaces. The suspension applies to all revenue-generating activities on behalf of the state government.
Anyone seen collecting revenues on behalf of the State Government will be arrested, the governor’s statement read. He has directed the Commissioner of Police to ensure strict enforcement of the order, stressing that any violators would face legal consequences.
Okpebholo’s administration has signaled that it will soon address concerns surrounding the revenue collection system, and he will issue further directives in due course. For now, however, the governor has made it clear that no one is authorized to collect revenues in the state on behalf of the government.
Read also:
- EDO ELECTION: Okpebholo Defeat Ighodalo With 44,012 Votes
- EDO ELECTION: Ighodalo, Okpebholo In Tight Race As INEC Uploads Results
The decision to suspend revenue collection and restructure the state’s public service comes just two months after the All Progressives Congress (APC) clinched the governorship seat, and it highlights Okpebholo’s commitment to a fresh approach to governance in Edo State.
As the governor settles into office, many are watching closely to see how these changes will impact the state’s public sector, and whether new reforms will help streamline governance and improve the efficiency of revenue management.
Governor Okpebholo’s leadership promises to be transformative, and the coming weeks will reveal how these early steps will shape the future of Edo State.
