…orders swift investigation into employments granted in Last 7 Months of Gov Godwin Obaseki-led administration
…chides heads of MDAs on ongoing recruitments clouded in secrecy, nepotism, lack of due process
By Godspower Eguasa
The Edo State Governor, Sen. Monday Okpebholo has affirmed his unwavering commitment to a credible, transparent, and merit-based recruitment process for Edo citizens and residents, noting his administration’s continuous commitment to prioritizing the wellbeing of Edo people, especially the youths, extracting the best brains into the State’s civil and public service.
Okpebholo made this known via a communication notice signed by the Secretary to State Government (SSG), Musa Umar Ikhilor on Friday, 22nd of November, 2024 in Government House, Benin City.
Okpebholo, who frowned at the alarming rate of illegality, discrimination, and lack of due process that has marred the State’s Civil and Public Service in the last seven months of the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration, especially through the various heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies of Government, assured that an immediate and comprehensive investigation has been ordered to review the entire recruitment process, beginning from May 2024.
Ikhilor in his notice read: “The Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo is in receipt of report of the clandestine activities being perpetuated by some Commissions, Boards, Parastatals, and Agencies of Government in the State.
“Preliminary investigation reveals that these bodies have continued to issue back-dated letters of employment to their cronies without due process.
“For the avoidance of doubt, this Administration believes in the principle of fairness and equity which expects that all employment exercise should be merit-based, competitive, and accessible to all Edo indigenes”.
Stressing further, it reads: “In light of the foregoing and in order to arrest this ugly trend, the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has directed the immediate suspension of all employment processes as well as the review of all appointments carried out since May, 2024 by Commissions, Boards, Parastatals, and Agencies of Government.
“Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are to note and comply with the above directive.”
While the Governor continues to create the pathway for sustainable development in the State, we are optimistic that this new administration will drive Edo to enviable heights. Indeed, a new Edo has risen.
