Edo State Governor Dismisses Sacking of Civil Servants
The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has rejected allegations that he has dismissed civil servants employed during the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki. The claim was made by the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) through its caretaker spokesman, Chris Nehikhare.
Nehikhare expressed disappointment and condemnation over the alleged “sacking” of civil servants, describing it as unacceptable and a direct assault on workers and citizens. He stressed that many of the affected workers were left in uncertain conditions, causing sudden hardship for their families and dependents amidst current economic challenges.
The PDP described the government’s actions as harsh and inhumane, likening it to the dark days of military rule when public servants were suddenly dismissed without notice.
The statement read: “This callous and rash action is a direct assault on workers and the people of the state, and we condemn it in its entirety.” Nehikhare questioned whether this was the beginning of harsh policies and decisions under the new administration, expressing concern for the welfare of workers and citizens.
However, the Edo State government, through the Chief Press Secretary of the governor, Fred Itua, countered the allegations, stating that no civil servants were sacked. Instead, those asked to leave were political appointees of the last administration in the state.
Itua emphasized that no governor dismisses civil servants through a media pronouncement, adding that those affected were only political appointees. He also warned that anyone who is a product of the last administration and appointed by Obaseki must stand by the rule of law.
