Edo Governor Freezes State Accounts, Reverses Ministry’s Name
By Shalom Oludele
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has directed that all the state’s bank accounts should be frozen indefinitely.
According to a statement issued by the chief press secretary, to the governor, Mr. Fred Itua, this directive, issued on Thursday, in Benin, is expected to take immediate effect.
The governor warned commercial banks and heads of ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to ensure compliance or face severe penalties..
“All bank accounts in all commercial banks are now frozen. Commercial banks must ensure strict adherence and prevent any withdrawal from government accounts until further notice,” the statement said, adding that findings of investigations and financial reconciliation would determine determine further actions.
The statement also has it that Okpebholo ordered the immediate reversal of the Ministry of Roads and Bridges to its former name of Ministry of Works.
The governor said the change became necessary since the ministry, despite its name, has no record of completed bridges or even significant road projects in the state.
“It is ironic that despite its name, the ministry did not construct a single bridge, not even a pedestrian one,” he said.
The governor directed that the new name should reflect on all official documents and platforms immediately
