The Edo State Government has issued a one-week ultimatum to the former deputy governor, Engr. Godwin Omobayo to immediately return all government property and assets still in his possession.
Omobayo was sworn in on 8 April 2024 by Chief Judge Daniel Okungbowa following his nomination by the then Governor Godwin Obaseki, who had a fallout with his deputy, Comrade Phillip Shaibu.
Shaibu had earlier been impeached by the state House of Assembly but was later reinstated by the court, making Omobayo’s tenure illegal.
On Tuesday, Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua said that all assets acquired or used by Omobayo in the course of public service remain state property and must be returned upon leaving office.
The statement read: ‘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 continued retention of such property constitutes a clear breach of public trust and unlawful possession of state assets.
‘The Edo State Government reiterates that all assets acquired or utilised in the course of public service remain the property of the State and must be duly returned upon cessation of office.
‘The continued retention of such property by any individual constitutes a clear breach of public trust and an unlawful possession of state assets.
‘Accordingly, Mr. Omobayo is hereby given a period of seven days from the date of this release to comply fully by returning all government property under his custody to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government’.
Itua noted that failure to comply within the stipulated period would compel the government to direct the state’s Commissioner of Police to effect his arrest and ensure the immediate recovery of all state assets still in his possession through lawful means.
He added: ‘The Edo State Government remains committed to accountability, due process, and the protection of public property.
‘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.
‘This administration, under the leadership of Senator Monday Okpebholo, will 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 responsibility and probity.
‘The government urges Omobayo to respect this directive and avoid actions that could invite consequences or further embarrassment’.
