Benin City, Edo State – Governor Monday Okpebholo has approved the appointment of Mr. Christopher U. Udobor Iyase as the new Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Mobilization, with immediate effect, replacing Aigbogun Collins who has been relieved of his duties. The announcement was made official in a government special notice signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., confirming the change in office.
Christopher Udobor Iyase, a graduate of Public Administration from the University of Benin, is described as a committed youth mobilizer with a focus on the welfare and empowerment of Edo State youths. The sacking of Aigbogun Collins comes after his recent detention during the Ekpoma protests, which had sparked public outcry and calls for his release. No official explanation was provided for the dismissal.
The move has ignited immediate debate online and among political observers. Some view the change as a necessary reshuffle to inject fresh energy into youth engagement, while others see it as political retaliation following the Ekpoma unrest. Reactions include claims of “political cleansing,” questions about transparency in governance, and curiosity about what the new Special Adviser plans to achieve.
The timing of the appointment is particularly sensitive. Collins Aigbogun had recently been released by the Governor after his detention during protests, and now faces removal without stated reasons. Edo citizens and youths are demanding clarity on whether the sacking was due to performance, political considerations, or fallout from protest activities.
Governor Okpebholo has not commented beyond the official notice. Observers note that the public expects accountability and transparency, especially given the heightened political and security tensions in Edo Central and across the state.
This development marks a significant turn in Edo youth politics and governance. The new Special Adviser, Christopher Udobor Iyase, inherits the responsibility of engaging youths constructively amid unemployment, unrest, and rising expectations from civil society.
Edo people are watching closely. They demand explanations. They want results. One former Special Adviser detained and released, now sacked. Another appointed without public reasoning. The message from the Governor will define public perception moving forward.
Post a Comment