In a historic move aimed at mending the relations between the Edo State Government and the Benin Kingdom, Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo has restored the full statutory rights of the Oba of Benin, including ownership of the repatriated Benin artefacts looted by British colonial forces during the 1897 Benin Massacre.

Governor Okpebholo also reversed previous decisions, such as the revocation of the Oba Akenzua II Cultural Centre’s concession, which was intended for use as a motor park by the last administration.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua in a Statement on Sunday explained that the Okpebholo’s administration plans to restore the centre to its original purpose and ensure its proper utilization.

In addition, Governor Okpebholo abolished the controversial traditional councils created in Edo South by the previous government, reestablishing the Benin Traditional Council’s (BTC) financial entitlements and authority.
Okpebholo reaffirmed his support for the construction of the Benin Royal Museum to house the returned artefacts, distancing itself from the Museum of West Africa Art (MOWA) promoted by the former administration.

With the Federal Government issuing a Gazette recognizing the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, as the sole custodian of the repatriated artefacts, the Governor reiterated his commitment to upholding the Monarch’s rights and supporting the rich cultural heritage of the Benin people.

Governor Okpebholo’s administration further emphasized respect for traditional institutions, ensuring that the Oba of Benin’s role as the cultural leader of the Kingdom remains unchallenged.

In a bid to enhance transparency and accountability in governance, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the constitution of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the assets and liabilities of the previous administration led by Governor Godwin Obaseki.

The committee, which is tasked with providing a comprehensive review of the state’s assets, will be inaugurated on Tuesday, 26th November 2024, at 1:00 PM at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City.
In a statement by Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the decision to set up the committee aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to ensuring probity and transparency in Edo State’s governance.

“The need to establish a State Assets Verification Committee is imperative to set the state on a path of development and accountable leadership. Despite repeated calls for a holistic database of the assets and liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led government provided scant and limited records.

“In line with the Governor’s campaign promise to promote transparency and deepen the governance process, this committee has been constituted with respected sons and daughters of Edo State,” the statement read.

The committee’s findings are expected to guide future decisions and strengthen governance structures in the state.
The Committee Members which include distinguished individuals from various sectors is chaired by Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, with Anslem Ojezua as the Deputy Chairman.
Other members include:

1. Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe – Chairman
2. Anslem Ojezua – Deputy Chairman
3. Prince Kassim Afegbua – Member
4. Hon. Patrick Ikhariale – Member
5. Mr. Taiwo Akerele – Member
6. Hon. Patrick Idiake – Member
7. Hon. Rasaq Bello-Osagie – Member
8. Mr. Fredrick Unopah – Member
9. Frank Osumuede Edebor Esq – Secretary
10. Mrs. Abdallah Eugenia – Member
11. Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon – Member
12. Pharm. Kenny Okojie – Member
13. Mrs. Lyndsey Tes-Sorae – Member
14. Hon. Abass Braimoh – Member

***Palliatives for Residents Discovered in Recovered Bus

The Edo State Government has announced the recovery of three out of more than 200 official vehicles unaccounted for, as it has intensified effort to recover government-owned assets from private custody.

Chairman of the recently inaugurated Vehicle Recovery Committee, disclosed that within 24 hours of the committee’s operation, three vehicles had been retrieved.
The recovered vehicles, which include a Hilux van and two Toyota Hiace buses, were found in a private residence.

Notably, one of the recovered Toyota Hiace buses was contained palliatives intended for distribution to residents. The items included bags of garri and rice, weighing 10kg and 25kg.

Okungbowa called on members of the public to provide information about the location of other missing vehicles, assuring whistleblowers of substantial rewards for accurate and verifiable tips.

“Since our inauguration, we have successfully recovered three vehicles in just 24 hours, including one Hilux and two Toyota Hiace buses. These vehicles were discovered in private custody, and our operation is supported by security agencies to ensure compliance,” Okungbowa said.

He noted that the committee has received reports indicating over 200 government vehicles are unaccounted for. He urged former government officials and other individuals in possession of state vehicles to return them voluntarily within 48 hours.

“These vehicles are not private property but belong to the people of Edo State. It is unfair for anyone to appropriate government assets for personal use,” Okungbowa emphasized.

He added that the success of the initial operation was due to actionable intelligence, urging citizens to provide more information about other locations where state vehicles may be kept.

“We recovered these vehicles based on information provided by the public, and we appeal for more tips. Our team will continue operations to recover all missing vehicles,” he said.

Okungbowa reassured residents that the committee remains committed to its mandate and will not relent until all missing government assets are recovered for the benefit of the people of Edo State.