• Immediate freezing of all state-owned bank accounts ordered by Governor Monday Okpebholo
• Accounts to remain frozen until further notice
• Commercial banks and MDAs must comply immediately
• Severe penalties for non-compliance
• Freezing aimed at facilitating investigations and reconciliations.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has taken a bold step by ordering the immediate freezing of all state-owned bank accounts. This directive, effective immediately, mandates commercial banks and heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to ensure no withdrawals are made from government coffers until further notice.
According to Fred Itua, the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Okpebholo warned that anyone disregarding this directive, including MDAs and civil servants, will face severe penalties. The Governor aims to facilitate necessary investigations and reconciliations before deciding on the way forward.
This move follows Okpebholo’s recent actions, including firing permanent secretaries and dissolving boards. The Governor also swore in a new Secretary to the State Government and commissioner. Former Governor Obaseki has embarked on a post-tenure medical vacation amidst these developments.
