By John Umeh
The Edo State Government has issued a stern one-week ultimatum to former Deputy Governor Godwin Omobayo, directing him to immediately return all official vehicles, documents, and other government assets still in his possession.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, October 28, Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, said the government was “deeply concerned” that several items belonging to the state remain unlawfully held by Omobayo despite multiple formal requests for their return.
“The government has observed with dismay that several official items, including vehicles, documents, and other state-owned assets assigned to Mr. Omobayo during his brief and illegitimate tenure, are yet to be surrendered to the appropriate authorities,” the statement read.
The directive comes months after Omobayo’s short-lived tenure as deputy governor, following the dramatic political tussle between former Governor Godwin Obaseki and his then-deputy, Philip Shaibu.
Omobayo had been sworn in on April 8, 2024, by Chief Judge Daniel Okungbowa after Obaseki nominated him to replace Shaibu, who was impeached by the Edo State House of Assembly at the time. However, Shaibu was later reinstated following a political resolution, effectively rendering Omobayo’s appointment null and void.
Government Demands Immediate Compliance
According to the statement, the government insists that Omobayo’s continued possession of official property constitutes “a breach of public trust and unlawful appropriation of state assets.”
“All government assets must be returned upon leaving office, regardless of tenure length or the circumstances of exit. Mr. Omobayo is hereby given seven days from the date of this release to comply fully by returning all government property under his custody to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government,” Itua stated.
The government warned that failure to comply within the stipulated period would leave it with no option but to initiate enforcement action through the Edo State Police Command.
“Should Mr. Omobayo fail to return the assets within seven days, the Commissioner of Police will be directed to ensure the recovery of all state property through lawful means,” the statement emphasized.
Zero Tolerance for Impunity
The Edo State Government reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability in the management of public resources. Itua made it clear that no individual—no matter how highly placed—would be allowed to retain state assets after leaving office.
“No one is above the law. The government of Edo State will not tolerate any act of impunity. All assets belonging to the people must be duly accounted for and returned to the state,” he added.
This latest development signals Governor Okpebholo’s administration’s firm stance against corruption and misuse of public property, as it seeks to restore order and credibility in the management of government assets.
Omobayo has yet to issue an official response to the ultimatum as of press time.
