Governor Okpebholo Freezes State Bank Accounts, Abolishes Roads and Bridges Ministry

Osaiyekemwen Confidence

Benin City.

Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has ordered the immediate freezing of all state-owned bank accounts. The directive, effective until further notice, mandates strict compliance from commercial banks and the heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) across the state.

The governor’s warning was unequivocal: any individual, including heads of MDAs and civil servants, who disregards the order will face severe consequences. “All state accounts in commercial banks are frozen, and no funds should be withdrawn until further notice,” the statement emphasized. Governor Okpebholo added that compliance from MDAs must be swift and absolute, allowing for necessary investigations and reconciliations.

In a related decision, Governor Okpebholo announced the dissolution of the Ministry of Roads and Bridges, returning its responsibilities to the Ministry of Works. This department name change, instituted during the previous administration, was criticized by Governor Okpebholo, who stated, “It is absurd to maintain such a title when no significant roads or bridges were constructed by the last administration.”

The Governor’s directive requires relevant government agencies to implement these changes immediately, with the promise of further actions aimed at enhancing the state’s governance.

Signed: Mr. Fred Itua,
Chief Press Secretary to Edo State Governor