Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended one of his Special Advisers following reports of unauthorized fundraising activities carried out without the knowledge or approval of the state government.
In an official statement issued on Tuesday, Governor Okpebholo described the action of the suspended aide as a serious breach of public trust and administrative protocol. The identity of the Special Adviser was not immediately disclosed, pending the conclusion of an internal inquiry.
The governor emphasized that the state government was not aware of, nor did it sanction, any form of public or private fundraising campaign attributed to the adviser in question. He noted that the act not only contravenes ethical standards but also undermines the credibility and transparency his administration is committed to upholding.
“The actions of the Special Adviser were conducted without the knowledge, approval, or endorsement of the Edo State Government,” the statement read. “This administration will not tolerate any form of misconduct or unauthorized financial solicitation that could mislead the public or damage the integrity of government operations.”
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s zero-tolerance policy towards acts that compromise accountability and public confidence. He directed the Office of the Secretary to the State Government to commence a thorough investigation into the incident.
“This suspension is a first step,” he added. “Further disciplinary action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation. Every government official must operate within the boundaries of transparency, integrity, and due process.”
The governor also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious fundraising activities linked to government officials or agencies.