The Edo State Government has given former deputy governor Godwin Omobayo a one-week ultimatum to return all government property and assets still in his possession. This was disclosed in a statement issued by Fred Itua, spokesperson for Governor Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday in Benin City.According to the statement, despite repeated reminders, several official items — including vehicles, documents, and other state-owned assets assigned to Omobayo during his tenure — had not yet been returned to the appropriate authorities.
The government stressed that all assets acquired or used in the course of public service remain the property of the state and must be handed over upon leaving office. “The continued retention of such property by any individual constitutes a clear breach of public trust and unlawful possession of state assets. Accordingly, Mr Omobayo is hereby given a period of seven days from the date of this release to comply fully by returning all government property under his custody to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government,” the statement read.
It warned that failure to comply within the stipulated period would compel the government to instruct the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, to arrest Omobayo and recover the assets through lawful means. The government reaffirmed its commitment to accountability, due process, and the protection of public property, stating that no individual — regardless of political affiliation or former position — would be allowed to unlawfully retain state-owned assets.
“This administration, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, will continue to uphold the principles of transparency, discipline, and integrity in public service,” Itua added. The government urged Omobayo to comply with the directive to avoid consequences or further embarrassment.
Mr Omobayo, who served under former governor Godwin Obaseki of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following the impeachment of Philip Shaibu, has not yet responded to the directive. Meanwhile, the PDP recently criticised Governor Okpebholo’s administration for repeatedly attacking the previous government’s record.
“The Okpebholo government is acting as if it is in the opposition while the PDP is in government. The APC keeps going back to the past. Those facilities Obaseki built are still there,” said Chris Nehikhare, former PDP spokesperson and ex-Commissioner for Information and Orientation.
Source: https://www.premiumtimesng.com/
