By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Mr. Godwin Omobayo, whom the government described as the former illegitimate deputy governor, demanding the immediate return of all government property and assets still in his possession.
In a statement on Tuesday signed by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Fred Itua, the government expressed dismay that despite several formal reminders, Omobayo has yet to surrender official items, including vehicles, documents, and other state-owned assets assigned to him during what it called his “brief and illegitimate tenure.”
“The Government has observed with dismay that several official items, including vehicles, documents, and other State-owned assets assigned to Mr. Omobayo during his brief and illegitimate tenure, are yet to be surrendered to the appropriate authorities, despite multiple formal reminders,” the statement read.
The government emphasized that all assets acquired or used in the course of public service remain the property of the state and must be returned upon leaving office.
“The continued retention of such property by any individual constitutes a clear breach of public trust and an unlawful possession of state assets,” the statement added.
According to the directive, Omobayo has seven days from the date of the release to comply fully by returning all government property in his custody to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG).
Failure to meet the deadline, the government warned, would trigger legal enforcement measures.
“Failure to comply within the stipulated period will compel the Government to direct the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, to effect his arrest and ensure the immediate recovery of all State assets still in his possession through lawful means,” the government cautioned.
The statement reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and protection of public property under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo.
“No individual, regardless of former position or political affiliation, will be permitted to unlawfully appropriate or retain assets belonging to the people of Edo State,” it stated.
The government stressed that it would continue to uphold the principles of transparency, discipline, and integrity in public service, ensuring that all public officers are held to the highest standards of probity.
“This administration remains unwavering in its commitment to due process and public accountability,” the statement concluded. “Mr. Omobayo is therefore urged to respect this directive and avoid actions that could invite consequences or further embarrassment.”
Omobayo was sworn in as Deputy Governor on April 8, 2024, by then-Governor Godwin Obaseki, following the political fallout with his former deputy, Philip Shaibu, after he was impeached by the Edo State House of Assembly just months before the end of their tenure.
However, the courts later nullified the impeachment, describing it as illegal, null and void, and politically motivated, while reinstating Shaibu as the duly elected and legally recognized Deputy Governor of Edo State.
