Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has redeployed Dr Felix Akhabue from the Ministry of Works to the Ministry of Water Resources, effective immediately. A statement issued by Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, confirmed the redeployment and stated that the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works would oversee operations until a new commissioner is appointed. The governor made the announcement during a visit to Edo State University, Iyamho, where he also announced an increase in the institution's monthly subvention from N100 million to N250 million. Additionally, he approved a N2 billion grant for infrastructure development at the university.
The governor commissioned the Ehi Aganmonmen Business Administration E-Library and broke ground for the Peter Omoh Dunia Fitness Centre and the Edo State University Health Centre. He praised Chief Ehi Aganmonmen for donating computers and furniture for the e-library and commended Peter Omoh Dunia for supporting the fitness centre. Okpebholo highlighted the sacrifice of Vice-Chancellor Professor Adetimirin, who donated one month's salary, and a parent who sponsored architectural designs, calling such acts essential to progress. He urged more private sector involvement in public projects and emphasized proper maintenance of new facilities. The governor also commissioned infrastructure projects at Auchi College, including an ICT hall, administrative blocks, and a sporting arena.
Redeploying a commissioner while inflating a university subvention by 150% in one sitting reveals a governor comfortable with unilateral decisions. The N2 billion grant follows individual donations, suggesting public funding now trails private sacrifice. For Edo students, this means better facilities—but also sets a precedent where essential state support hinges on symbolic generosity.
