Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended his Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Felix Isere, over alleged unauthorised fundraising activities linked to a proposed oil and gas summit in the state.
The suspension, announced on Tuesday through a statement by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, comes amid concerns over financial impropriety and lack of due process in the organization of the summit, which was slated to commence on August 7.
The statement said Gov. Okpebholo has also ordered the immediate suspension of the summit, citing a breach of official protocol by the suspended adviser.
“Due to the breach, the proposed summit is suspended, and Isere is directed to refund all monies collected from donors for the event,” the SSG said.
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The state government further warned the public and all prospective donors to desist from any further engagement with the suspended official.
“Prospective donors are hereby advised to stop all dealings with the suspended adviser,” the statement added.
The move is seen as part of the governor’s commitment to upholding transparency and accountability in public service, especially in the management of funds tied to state-sponsored events.
The oil and gas summit was initially intended to attract investors and stakeholders in the energy sector to explore business opportunities in Edo State, which is gradually positioning itself as a hub for oil and gas investment in southern Nigeria.
