Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered a shake-up across various state institutions.
In a bold move, the governor approved the dissolution of the Governing Councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions, including the prestigious Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma.
The directive takes effect immediately.
Similarly, the governor has also ordered the immediate disengagement of the management staff at two prominent healthcare facilities in the state; Edo Specialist Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, both located in Benin City.
These decisions were outlined in a government special announcement dated November 20, 2024, signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor.
The development was further confirmed in a press release issued on Wednesday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua.
In the statement, the decision reflects the governor’s commitment to restructuring critical state-owned institutions for enhanced efficiency and performance.
The announcement stated, “It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the dissolution of the governing councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions in Edo State with immediate effect.
“Accordingly, all affected members of the governing councils of all state-owned tertiary institutions are to hand over all government properties in their possession to their respective heads of the institutions.”
Addressing the healthcare sector reforms, the statement continued, “It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that Governor Okpebholo has approved the disengagement of the management staff of Edo Specialist Hospital and Stella Obasanjo Hospital, Benin City, with immediate effect.
“In view of the above, the management staff of the aforementioned hospitals are to hand over all government properties in their possession to the most senior officer in their various institutions.”
The decision to dissolve the governing councils and disengage hospital management comes amidst efforts by the state government to overhaul the education and healthcare sectors.
Observers believe this move could pave the way for fresh appointments that align with Governor Okpebholo’s vision of fostering excellence in service delivery.
This action follows other recent developments in the state, including the confirmation of new commissioners and the governor’s ongoing reconciliation efforts within his administration.
It signals his intent to leave a lasting impact on key sectors that directly affect the lives of Edo State residents.
