The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of all consultancy services and related providers in the state’s public service.
The directive was conveyed through a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, on Monday, November 18.
According to the statement, all financial transactions and engagements with the affected consultants and service providers are to be halted immediately.
Ikhilor disclosed that the governor has established a Review Committee tasked with auditing the services and submitting a report. Until the committee concludes its work, the suspension will remain in effect.
Ikhilor stated, “All financial transactions and related services with affected consultants and service providers are to be put on hold immediately, pending the submission of the Review Committee’s report.”
The governor further directed all accounting officers and heads of ministries, departments, and agencies to comply strictly with the directive.
Also, the state government announced the banning of unlicensed agents and touts from collecting revenue across Edo State. Only statutory and licensed revenue collectors are authorized to perform this duty on the government’s behalf.
The statement reads, “The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to the continued collection of revenue by unlicensed agents and touts who lack the authority to do so.
“While the suspension of all non-commissioned officials in revenue collection remains in place, henceforth, only statutory and licensed revenue collectors are permitted to operate and collect revenue on behalf of the government, especially in motor parks and other spheres of commercial activities.”
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Edo State residents, warning that the government will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute violators.
“The public is hereby notified to report any unlicensed agents to the police. The government will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute those found wanting. These miscreants, their sponsors, and agents are warned not to test the iron will of this government in its determination to protect the lives and property of the good people of Edo State,” the statement concluded.
