In a bold move, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the immediate suspension of all consultancy services and related providers within the state’s public service. The directive is part of the new administration’s drive to streamline operations and ensure accountability in the use of state resources.
The suspension came just days after Okpebholo signed a revised appropriation bill into law, which now allocates N485.63 billion for the state’s budget. The new budget is seen as a significant step forward in advancing the state’s development agenda.
Okpebholo’s directive, issued on Monday, November 18, has placed all financial transactions and services involving the affected consultants on hold. This includes services related to consulting contracts, pending the review of these contracts by a committee set up by the governor.
“All financial transactions and related services with affected consultants and service providers are to be put on hold immediately, pending the submission of a report by the Review Committee established by the Governor,” the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, stated in a notice.
The suspension of these consultancy services aligns with the governor’s larger goal of ensuring that state funds are used effectively for public projects, especially as the administration embarks on its ambitious developmental plans.
Revised Budget: A Foundation for Transformation
The signing of the revised N485.63 billion Appropriation Bill marks a key moment for Governor Okpebholo and his administration. With N282.99 billion allocated for capital projects and N202.65 billion for recurrent expenditure, the budget is designed to fund infrastructure, education, healthcare, and other key areas in the state’s development plans.
Governor Okpebholo expressed his gratitude to the Edo State House of Assembly for the swift passage of the bill. He emphasized that the passage of the bill was not just a political milestone but a sign of the administration’s commitment to transforming the state.
“I want to thank you (Edo lawmakers) for your cooperation and the speedy passage of this bill,” Okpebholo said during the signing ceremony at the Executive Council Chamber of Government House in Benin. “With this momentum, Edo State is set to experience remarkable development. I see a team of dedicated individuals ready to work for the betterment of our state.”
The Governor’s remarks were met with applause from the Edo lawmakers, who were present at the ceremony, including the Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, Chief Blessing Agbebaku.
Lawmakers Express Support for the New Budget
Chief Blessing Agbebaku, the Speaker of the Edo House of Assembly, highlighted the legislature’s commitment to ensuring the success of the new administration’s plans.
“The 8th Assembly expedited the passage of this appropriation law to allow the new administration to commence its projects without delay,” Agbebaku said. “Government is a continuum, and we are committed to fostering development for the people of Edo State.”
The Speaker’s comments underscore the importance of political continuity in government, particularly as new administrations take over. The Assembly’s quick action in passing the budget indicates a cooperative effort between the executive and legislative arms of the Edo State government.
The Impact of the Suspension on Consultancy Services
The suspension of all consultancy services in the state is seen as a major shake-up in Edo State’s public service sector. It reflects the new governor’s desire to ensure that contracts and services are thoroughly vetted and that public resources are not misused.
The suspension also comes at a time when the state is preparing to launch numerous developmental projects funded by the revised budget. By halting consultancy contracts, the governor is signaling a push for greater efficiency and accountability in how the state government manages its projects.
In the official statement, the Secretary to the State Government reminded all relevant officials, including Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), to comply strictly with the directive.
“All Accounting Officers, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies are expected to take note and comply strictly with this directive,” the notice read.
