In a surprise move, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has ordered the immediate freezing of all state-owned bank accounts until further notice.This directive, announced by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Thursday, requires commercial banks and heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to comply without delay.
Governor Okpebholo warned that anyone, including MDAs and civil servants, who disobeys this order will face severe consequences. The governor plans to conduct necessary investigations and reconciliations before determining the next steps.
In another significant development, Governor Okpebholo has instructed relevant government agencies to change the name of the Ministry of Roads and Bridges back to the Ministry of Works. This decision aims to address concerns regarding the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki, during which no significant road or bridge projects were completed.
Governor Okpebholo criticized the naming of the ministry, stating, “It is amusing to refer to a government body as the Ministry of Roads and Bridges when no bridges have been constructed, not even a pedestrian one”. The governor promised to conduct further assessments of actions taken by the past administration and make decisions in the best interest of the state.
This move is seen as part of Governor Okpebholo’s efforts to reform the state’s finances and infrastructure, key campaign promises during his election. As the newly elected governor, Okpebholo has vowed to bring stability and growth to Edo State.
