Edo Government has given former deputy governor Godwin Omobayo one week to return all state assets in his possession or face arrest

Edo Government orders Omobayo to return assets within one week, warning that failure to comply will lead to arrest and forced recovery of all state property in his custody.

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The directive was contained in a statement released on Tuesday by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, in Benin City.

According to the statement, the former deputy governor, Mr Godwin Omobayo, is yet to return several official items, including vehicles, documents, and other government-owned property assigned to him during his tenure, despite multiple formal reminders.

The government reiterated that all assets acquired or utilised in the course of public service remain the property of the state and must be duly surrendered at the end of tenure.

“The continued retention of such property by any individual constitutes a clear breach of public trust and unlawful possession of state assets,” the statement read.

Omobayo was therefore issued a seven-day ultimatum to comply fully by returning all items to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government.

The Edo Government further warned that if the former deputy governor fails to comply, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, will be directed to effect his arrest and recover the assets through lawful means.

The statement stressed that the Okpebholo administration remains firm in its commitment to accountability, due process, and protection of public property, adding that no individual, regardless of past office or political affiliation, would be allowed to unlawfully retain assets belonging to the people.

“This administration, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, will continue to uphold the principles of transparency, discipline, and integrity in public service, ensuring that all public officers are held to the highest standards of responsibility and probity,” Itua stated.

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The government urged Omobayo to comply with the directive to avoid “consequences or further embarrassment.”