Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended his Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Felix Osemwengie Isere, over allegations of unauthorized fundraising for a proposed Oil and Gas summit in the state.
The suspension was made public on Tuesday through a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, in Benin City.
According to the statement, Governor Okpebholo directed an immediate halt to the planned summit, which was scheduled to take place from August 7.
“Due to the breach of protocol and unauthorized actions, the proposed Oil and Gas Summit is suspended. Mr. Isere is directed to refund all monies collected from donors for the event,” Ikhilor said.
The SSG further advised all prospective donors to cease any financial or official dealings with the suspended adviser, warning that the government would not recognize any commitments made under the unauthorized arrangement.
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and due process in state affairs, stressing that all official programs must follow established approval procedures.
The development has put the future of the Oil and Gas Summit in uncertainty, with government sources hinting that a properly organized version of the event may be considered at a later date once due processes are observed.
