Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to the immediate past Deputy Governor, Mr. Godwins Omobayo, directing him to return all government assets and property still in his possession.
In a statement released on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor said the directive followed several official reminders that had gone unheeded.
According to the statement, the government discovered that several state-owned items — including vehicles, documents, and other official property — assigned to Omobayo during his tenure had not yet been surrendered to the relevant authorities.
“All assets acquired or utilised in the course of public service remain the property of the State and must be duly returned upon cessation of office,” the statement read.
Governor Monday Okpebholo has given former Deputy Governor Godwins Omobayo seven days to return all state-owned assets, warning of police enforcement if he fails to comply.
Governor Okpebholo described the continued possession of such items as “a breach of public trust and unlawful retention of state property.”The statement added that failure to comply within the stipulated time frame would leave the government with no choice but to involve law enforcement.
“Failure to comply within the stipulated period will compel the Government to direct the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, to effect his arrest and ensure the immediate recovery of all State assets still in his possession through lawful means,” it warned.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of public assets, stressing that no individual — regardless of former office or political affiliation — would be allowed to unlawfully retain property belonging to the people of Edo State.
“The Government urges Mr. Omobayo to respect this directive and avoid actions that could invite consequences or further embarrassment,” the statement added.
Reacting to the development, Omobayo said the matter was already before a competent court. He also confirmed that he had received all his entitlements, including his November salary.
