Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Bold First Steps: Dissolution of Public Service Boards and Infrastructure Revamp
Edotoday reports that barely 24 hours after assuming office, Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has made decisive moves to reshape state administration and infrastructure. His swift actions included the immediate dissolution of boards, agencies, and parastatals and a direct order for contractors to mobilize back to critical infrastructure sites across Benin City. This bold start has set the tone for a proactive administration to improve governance and restore public confidence.
Immediate Dissolution of Executive Boards and Public Appointees
Governor Okpebholo’s administration began with a sweeping directive that dissolved the Edo State public service’s executive boards, agencies, and parastatals. This decision affected permanent secretaries appointed from outside the civil service, ensuring that only those directly within the public sector remained in their roles.
In a public statement, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, emphasized that this restructuring was aimed at bolstering efficiency and accountability within Edo’s public sector. According to the announcement, all political appointees and affected officers were instructed to return government properties to their respective ministries’ senior officers.
This approach aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s vision for a streamlined government framework that aligns closely with his administration’s goals.
Suspension of Revenue Collection Across the State
In a move to address long-standing revenue management issues, Governor Okpebholo declared an indefinite halt to all revenue collections across Edo State, particularly in motor parks and other public spaces. The suspension aims to prevent revenue leakages and ensure that funds collected serve the public’s interest.
The Governor mandated the state Commissioner of Police to enforce this directive, with specific instructions to arrest any individuals or groups who continue revenue collection against the government’s order. This decisive stance signals a no-tolerance policy towards revenue mismanagement and demonstrates Governor Okpebholo’s dedication to transparent fiscal practices. Read more details here
Governor Okpebholo’s Call to Contractors: Immediate Infrastructure Repairs
During his inspection of key roads in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo ordered contractors to mobilize back to sites, prioritizing immediate repairs on critical road sections. His tour included high-traffic areas like Upper Mission Extension Road by Aduwawa junction and Ramat Park. Speaking on the urgent need for improved road infrastructure, the Governor assured residents that repair efforts would be swift to maximize the ongoing dry season.
The Governor reiterated his commitment to improving Edo’s road network, an issue he campaigned on extensively. “There is only one dry season in a year,” he stated, stressing the need to take full advantage of the period to complete construction efficiently. Among the areas marked for immediate action are:
- 7.5km Temboga Road
- Lucky Way Junction by Aduwawa
- Ramat Park/Slope Axis
- Eyaen Road
- Obadan Junction along the Benin/Auchi road
These projects reflect Okpebholo’s commitment to delivering a functional and sustainable road network for the people of Edo State.
A Renewed Hope Agenda for Edo People
Governor Okpebholo’s actions fall under the Renewed Hope agenda, inspired by President Bola Tinubu’s vision. His goal is to elevate Edo’s infrastructure and public administration to a standard that meets the public’s needs and improves overall living conditions. His emphasis on restoring hope resonates with the community’s desire for effective governance and improved quality of life.
Inauguration of Premium Trust Bank in Benin: A Step Toward Economic Growth
A notable highlight of Governor Okpebholo’s first day in office was the inauguration of a new branch of Premium Trust Bank in Benin. This addition to the state’s financial infrastructure is expected to boost local economic activities and provide residents with improved financial services.
A Promising Future for Edo State
Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first actions underscore his administration’s commitment to transparency, infrastructure development, and efficient governance. From suspending revenue collections to streamlining public administration and prioritizing infrastructure projects, his proactive approach sets a high standard for his term in office.
Edo State residents can anticipate an era of visible, impactful change, with initiatives focusing on core issues affecting their day-to-day lives.