The Edo State House of Assembly has dismissed all political appointees attached to its members, as announced by Speaker Blessing Agbebaku during Wednesday’s plenary session.
He stated that the decision was unanimously agreed upon by all 24 lawmakers, and those affected would receive their February salaries.
Among those relieved of their duties were special advisers and senior special advisers, who were initially appointed by lawmakers upon the commencement of the Eighth Assembly in June 2023.
Agbebaku emphasized, “This is to announce the sack of all political appointees attached to members of the House. I think it is two years now, and I think the House has graciously agreed that those sets of appointees, SAs and SSAs, should be relieved of their appointments today, February 19.”
He further noted that the Assembly would convene at a later date to determine the next steps regarding the vacant positions, adding, “We will meet consequently to know the next line of action to take on that. They will receive this month’s February salary.”
Additionally, the lawmakers passed a resolution mandating the transfer of security personnel who have spent over five years in the same locality across the state.
The resolution stemmed from a motion presented by Esan South-East representative Osezua Ojezele, who raised concerns over the rising criminal activities linked to herdsmen in Ubiaja.
The House also ruled that traditional rulers must now reside within their communities to enhance security and governance.
In another legislative move, the Assembly approved a bill establishing the Edo State Roads Funds and the Edo State Roads Funds Board and Administration.
The legislation aims to secure funding for the planning, development, rehabilitation, construction, and maintenance of Class C and Class D roads, as well as the rehabilitation of Class B roads in the state.
Furthermore, lawmakers passed a bill for the creation of the Edo Rural Access Road Agency, which will oversee the management and maintenance of Class C and Class D roads across Edo State.
