Gov Okpebholo Nominates Another Non-Indigene as Edo Commissioner

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has nominated Martin Anayochukwu Oli as commissioner-designate, making him the second non-indigene to receive a major appointment in the administration.

The nomination was announced in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Patrick Ebojele, who said the move shows the governor’s commitment to inclusive governance and giving different communities in Edo State a role in government.

Oli, a businessman and community leader from Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, has been involved in community development activities, particularly within the Igbo community in Edo.

According to the statement, the nomination was disclosed by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Ikhilor, as part of the administration’s effort to recognise individuals based on competence, experience and contributions to society.

The statement noted that Oli’s nomination follows the appointment of Hon. Abdulkarim Kadiri, a Hausa-Fulani community leader in Edo State, as Special Adviser on Community Matters in November 2024.

The governor’s spokesperson said the appointments reflect Edo’s diverse nature, noting that communities including Igbo, Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba and others have contributed to the state’s growth through business, culture and social activities.

Ebojele added that Oli has built a reputation as an entrepreneur and community advocate through grassroots initiatives aimed at improving livelihoods and creating opportunities.

His nomination will now be forwarded to the Edo State House of Assembly for screening and confirmation before he can officially assume the role.