Okpebholo Dismisses Permanent Secretaries, Suspends Revenue Collection in Edo

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has taken decisive action on his first day in office, dissolving the executives of all boards, agencies, and parastatals within the state public service.

The sweeping directive also affects permanent secretaries appointed from outside the civil service.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, confirmed that all affected appointees were instructed to hand over all government properties in their possession to the most senior public officers in their respective ministries, departments, and agencies.

“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the dissolution of executives of all boards, agencies, and parastatals in Edo State Public Service with immediate effect,” the statement read.

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“In addition, all permanent secretaries appointed from outside the state public/civil service and all political appointees are hereby relieved of their appointments.”

The governor’s actions, which come just 24 hours after his inauguration, reflect his determination to reshape the leadership structure in the state and fulfill his campaign promises of rapid governance reforms.

In a related development, Governor Okpebholo also ordered the immediate suspension of all revenue collection, particularly in motor parks, across the state. The suspension will remain in place until further notice as the governor reviews the practice.

“The collection of revenues in the state has been suspended indefinitely. Anyone seen collecting revenues on behalf of the state government will be arrested,” Okpebholo said in another statement. “The Commissioner of Police is hereby ordered to arrest anyone who flouts the order.”

The governor explained that the suspension was necessary to address concerns over the management of revenue collection and ensure accountability moving forward.

Speaking on his plans for infrastructure, Okpebholo, during an inspection tour of key roads in Benin City, emphasized his commitment to addressing the deteriorating state of roads in the capital.

READ ALSO: Okpebholo, Idahosa Sworn In as Edo Governor, Deputy

Promising immediate action, he directed contractors to resume work on several critical roads, including the Temboga Road, Lucky Way Junction, and the Ramat Park Axis, which have been plagued by poor conditions for years.

“We promised our people that we would fix and construct the roads. There is only one dry season in a year. This is the time to immediately move to sites and fix the roads,” Okpebholo remarked.