Gov Okpebholo Suspends Aide Over Unauthorized Oil, Gas Summit’s Fundraising 

By Idahosa Musa

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo has suspended his Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Felix Osemwengie Isere, for alleged unauthorized fundraising over an upcoming Oil and Gas summit in the State.

The suspension was contained in a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, on Tuesday in Benin.

Ikhilor said the governor also announced the immediate halt of the planned summit, scheduled to begin on August 7, 2025.

“Due to the breach, the proposed summit is suspended, and Isere is directed to refund all monies collected from donors for the event.

“Prospective donors are hereby advised to stop all dealings with the suspended adviser,” Ikhilor said.

In another development, Governor Monday Okpehbolo, on Tuesday approved the appointment of Arch. Fashanu Emmanuel as the Executive Director/CEO of the Edo State Flood, Erosion and Watershed Management Agency (EDOFEWMA).

Emmanuel’s appointment was contained in a statement issued by Umar Ikhilor and made available to newsmen in Benin.

The statement said that Fashanu Emmanuel would be taking over from the outgoing Director/CEO of Agency, Ahmed Momoh.