The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended his Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Mr Felix Osemwengie Isere, over allegations of financial misconduct involving unauthorised fundraising activities.
The suspension was announced in an official statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor, on Monday, 28th July 2025.
According to the statement, Mr Isere allegedly embarked on a fundraising drive for a proposed Oil and Gas Summit without the prior approval or knowledge of the Edo State Government. The summit was scheduled to take place in Benin City on Thursday, 7th August 2025.
The Governor described the act as an abuse of office and has directed Mr Isere to refund all monies collected from donors under the guise of organising the summit.
The statement reads: “It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the suspension of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Oil and Gas, Felix Osemwengie Isere, from office for unauthorised fundraising using the name of the Edo State Government for the proposed Oil and Gas Summit.
“In view of the foregoing, the proposed Summit is hereby suspended, and Mr Isere has been ordered to refund all monies to the various donors. Prospective donors are, by this announcement, advised to desist from dealing with the suspended appointee.”
In a related development, Governor Okpebholo has also relieved Mr Ahmed Musa of his duties as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (EDOFEWMA).
In his place, the Governor has approved the appointment of Architect Fashanu Emmanuel as the new Executive Director/CEO of the agency.
The new appointee, Arch. Emmanuel, is a seasoned architect with over two decades of professional experience. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture from Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, and a Master’s degree in Architecture from the University of Jos. He is also a registered Member of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (MNIA).
His appointment, according to the government, takes immediate effect.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
