Edo Govt Gives Ex-Deputy Governor 7 Days to Return Government Property or Face Arrest

The Edo State Government has given former Deputy Governor, Godwin Omobayo, a seven-day ultimatum to return all government assets in his possession or risk arrest.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the government expressed concern that Omobayo had failed to hand over several official items, including vehicles and documents, despite repeated reminders.

The statement read in part, “The government has observed with dismay that several official items, including vehicles, documents, and other state-owned assets assigned to Mr. Omobayo during his brief and illegitimate tenure, are yet to be surrendered to the appropriate authorities.”

Omobayo served briefly as deputy governor after being sworn in on April 8, 2024, by Chief Judge Daniel Okungbowa.
He was nominated by then-Governor Godwin Obaseki following a fallout with his former deputy, Philip Shaibu. However, Shaibu’s later reinstatement by the court rendered Omobayo’s tenure invalid.

The Edo government described Omobayo’s continued possession of the assets as a “breach of public trust and unlawful possession of state property.”

Itua added that the former deputy governor had seven days to comply with the directive by returning all government items to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.

He warned that failure to do so would lead to his arrest and recovery of all state assets through legal means.

The statement continued, “The Edo State Government remains committed to accountability, due process, and the protection of public property. No individual, regardless of former position or political affiliation, will be permitted to unlawfully retain assets belonging to the people of Edo State.”