Edo Govt Gives Ex-Deputy Governor Omobayo One Week to Return State Property, Threatens Arrest
The Edo State Government has issued a one-week ultimatum to former deputy governor, Marvellous Omobayo, directing him to return all government property and assets still in his possession.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, said all official items acquired or used by Omobayo during his time in office remain the property of Edo State and must be surrendered immediately.
“The government has observed with dismay that several official items, including vehicles, documents, and other state-owned assets assigned to Mr. Omobayo during his brief and illegitimate tenure, are yet to be surrendered despite multiple formal reminders,” the statement read.
Itua said the government viewed the continued retention of such items as “a clear breach of public trust and unlawful possession of state assets,” warning that failure to comply within seven days would prompt enforcement action.
“Accordingly, Mr. Omobayo is hereby given seven days from the date of this release to comply fully by returning all government property under his custody to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government,” he said.
The statement added that failure to comply would compel the state to direct the Commissioner of Police to arrest Omobayo and recover the assets through lawful means.
Itua stressed that the Okpebholo administration remains committed to accountability, due process, and the protection of public property.
“No individual, regardless of former position or political affiliation, will be permitted to unlawfully appropriate or retain assets belonging to the people of Edo State,” he said, urging Omobayo to “respect this directive and avoid actions that could attract consequences or further embarrassment.”
Omobayo was sworn in on April 8, 2024 after his nomination by then-Governor Godwin Obaseki following the impeachment of his former deputy, Philip Shaibu.
However, Shaibu’s later reinstatement rendered Omobayo’s tenure illegitimate, though he served out the administration’s remaining term with Obaseki.
