Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has issued a 48-hour ultimatum for all 18 local government council chairmen to submit their financial statements. The directive, announced through a press release from the Office of the Governor, aims to enhance transparency and accountability across the state.
Representing Governor Okpebholo during a meeting with the council chairmen at the Government House in Benin City, Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa emphasized the importance of collaboration for the state’s progress.
“The Governor has asked me to assure you that we are one family,” Idahosa said. “Election has come and gone, and now, we must work together. Mr. Governor is committed to transparency in this administration. That is why the Assets Verification Committee was established.”
He clarified that the financial statements, covering the period from September 4, 2023, to date, should be submitted through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) to the Assets Verification Committee. “This step is necessary to enable the committee to perform its duties effectively,” Idahosa added.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration has prioritized integrity in governance, tasking the committee to oversee the proper management of public resources across the 18 LGAs.
Responding on behalf of the local government chairmen, the Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and Orhionmwon LGA Chairman, Newman Ugiagbe, reaffirmed their commitment to the administration.
“We are here to congratulate the Governor and the Deputy on their mandate and pledge our loyalty to this administration,” Ugiagbe stated. “We are ready to implement the Governor’s policies at the grassroots to ensure the dividends of democracy reach the people.”
The ALGON Chairman expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Okpebholo, promising the full cooperation of local governments to support the administration’s vision.
