Edo: Governor Okpebholo Suspends Consultancy Services

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, on Monday, approved the immediate suspension of all consultancy services and related providers in the State’s public service.

Okpebholo, in a statement released through the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, noted that all financial transactions and related services with affected consultants and service providers are to be put on hold immediately.

Ikhilor noted, “all financial transactions and related services with affected consultants and service providers are to be put on hold immediately, pending the when the Review Committee, established by the governor submits its report.

“All Accounting Officers, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are expected to take note and comply strictly with this directive.”

The statement reads, “The attention of Edo State Government has been drawn to the continuous collection of revenue across the State by unlicensed agents and touts who do not have the authority of government to do so.

“While the suspension of all non-commissioned officials in the collection of revenue remains in place, henceforth only statutory and licensed revenue collectors are mandated to operate and collect revenue on behalf of government, especially in motor parks and other spheres of commercial activities.

“The public is hereby notified to report any unlicensed agent to the police as Government will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute those found wanting in this regard. These miscreants, their sponsors and agents are warned not to test the iron will of this government and its determination to secure the lives and property of the good people of Edo State.”