Edo Government Issues Ultimatum to Former Deputy Governor Over State Assets
In a
decisive move aimed at reclaiming public property, the Edo State Government has
issued a one-week ultimatum to former Deputy Governor Godwin Omobayo, demanding
the immediate return of all state-owned assets still in his possession.
This directive was announced on Tuesday, October 28, 2025, through a formal statement released by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Godwin
Omobayo’s brief stint as deputy governor began on April 8, 2024, when he was
sworn in by Chief Judge Daniel Okungbowa. His appointment followed a political
fallout between then-Governor Godwin Obaseki and his deputy, Phillip Shaibu.
Omobayo was nominated to fill the vacuum left by Shaibu’s temporary removal.
However,
the Edo State House of Assembly later reinstated Shaibu, rendering Omobayo’s
tenure illegitimate and short-lived.
Despite
the reversal of his appointment, Omobayo reportedly retained several government
properties, including vehicles, official documents, and other assets assigned
to him during his time in office.
The state
government expressed dismay over his continued possession of these items,
describing it as a breach of public trust and unlawful appropriation of state
resources.
The
statement emphasized that all assets acquired or used during Omobayo’s tenure
remain the property of the Edo State Government and must be returned without
delay. Itua warned that failure to comply within the stipulated seven-day
period would prompt legal action, including the involvement of the Edo State
Commissioner of Police to effect Omobayo’s arrest and recover the assets
through lawful means.
Governor
Okpebholo’s administration reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on impunity and
misuse of public resources.
The
government stressed that no individual, regardless of political affiliation or
former office, would be allowed to unlawfully retain property belonging to the
people of Edo State.
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