Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has suspended Ahmed Momoh, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (FEWMA), over alleged insubordination and involvement in a contentious chieftaincy ceremony in South-Ibie Kingdom.
The suspension, which takes immediate effect, was announced in a statement on Saturday by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor. Momoh has been directed to immediately hand over all government property in his possession to the most senior public servant at FEWMA.
According to the statement, Momoh, who hails from South-Ibie Kingdom in Etsako West Local Government Area, defied an order from the Ministry of Local Government, Community, and Chieftaincy Affairs to halt a turbaning ceremony and the appointment of Chiefs and Village Heads. The ministry had earlier suspended the event, citing security concerns and warning that the ceremony could escalate tensions within the community.
The ceremony, planned for January 25, 2025, was to be conducted by Umoru Inusa Umoru, who claims the title of Aidenogie of South-Ibie. However, the state government deemed the ceremony unauthorized and instructed that it be postponed until proper clearance was obtained.
Despite the directive, Momoh allegedly proceeded with actions that the government described as threatening to the peace and stability of the area. The statement accused him of defying state authority and undermining efforts to maintain order in the region.
“The Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the suspension of the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (FEWMA), Mr. Ahmed Musa Momoh, effective immediately,” the statement read.
The government also reiterated that any activities carried out by Umoru in his capacity as the purported Aidenogie must cease immediately, warning that further unauthorized actions could lead to additional consequences.
This development underscores the administration’s commitment to enforcing law and order while addressing tensions arising from traditional leadership disputes in the state. The governor called on all parties involved to respect the directives of the state government and maintain peace in the community.
Further investigations into the matter are expected, and the government has urged public officials to adhere strictly to guidelines and directives to avoid similar situations.
