Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has vowed to systematically eliminate criminal elements and restore peace across the state.
During a swearing-in ceremony for new appointees at the New Festival Hall in Benin City, Governor Okpebholo delivered a stark warning to criminal elements.
“We will pursue criminals and send them out of our land,” he stated.
The governor strategically appointed key personnel to critical positions, including Emmanuel Okoebor as Commissioner for Finance, Paddy Iyamu as Chairman of the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and retired Commissioner of Police Friday Ibadin as Coordinator of the Edo Security Network.
Addressing the newly appointed officials, Governor Okpebholo was unequivocal about their responsibilities.
He started, “You know why you are here and the task ahead of you,
“Edo should come first in all you do before your personal goals.
“I believe retired CP Ibadin is not a pushover in terms of securing Edo people. It is time to pursue criminals and send them out of our land.”
Regarding the Finance Commissioner, Okpebholo highlighted Okoebor’s banking sector experience.
“You have been in the banking sector and have the experience. We didn’t pick you from the streets. You need to bring that experience to save our land and money,” he remarked.
Okoebor, speaking on behalf of the new appointees, assured the governor and Edo State residents of their unwavering commitment to realizing the administration’s five-point development agenda.
The appointments were previously cleared by the Edo State House of Assembly during last week’s plenary session, following the adoption of the Committee on Rules and Business report.
Prominent dignitaries present at the swearing-in ceremony included Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Secretary to the Edo State Government Barr. Musa Ikhilor, Chief of Staff Gani Audu, Head of Service Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, and numerous Permanent Secretaries.
