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