Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the state’s 18 local government chairmen to submit their statements of accounts.
The directive was announced on Tuesday during a meeting with the chairmen at the Government House in Benin City. The governor, represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, instructed that the statements should cover the period from September 4, 2023, to date and be submitted to the Assets Verification Committee through the Secretary to the State Government.
The governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stating, “Election has come and gone, and we are all one family. Mr. Governor wants to assure you that we will work closely together to make Edo State better.”
He further added, “The Assets Verification Committee was set up to ensure accountability. However, the committee cannot go across all 18 local government areas, so your cooperation is essential. Submit your statements of accounts within the next 48 hours to enable the committee to work effectively.”
The Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, released a statement quoting Okpebholo, who thanked the chairmen for their time and expressed hope for smooth collaboration.
Responding, the Edo State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Newman Ugiagbe, pledged the chairmen’s loyalty to the governor and his administration.
“We are here to congratulate you and the Deputy on the mandate given to you by Edo people. We also pledge our loyalty to your administration. Our doors are open to implementing your policies and programs at the grassroots. We will ensure your administration succeeds and that our people enjoy the dividends of democracy,” Ugiagbe said.
