The Edo State Joint Transition Committee met for the first time on Friday as preparations continue for the inauguration of a new government on November 12, 2024.
Both parties expressed their commitment to ensuring a smooth transfer of power from the current Governor Godwin Obaseki-led administration to the governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
The Secretary to the State Government and head of the governor’s team, Joseph Eboigbe, assured that the Obaseki administration had nothing to hide.
He pledged that all necessary documents, both in hard and soft copies, would be provided. He also emphasized that even those outside the government would be available to clarify any issues.
The inaugural meeting took place at the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy and included committee members from both sides.
Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, stated, “The primary objective of the Transition Committee is to facilitate a smooth handing over of government. We look forward to the collaborative efforts of all members in ensuring a seamless transition.”
Eboigbe highlighted that the transition committee was established as early as July 2024, with the mandate to ensure the incoming administration would begin smoothly.
He noted that this transition marked the first time in Edo State’s history that power would be handed over from one government to another and from one political party to another.
He also mentioned that about 90 percent of the committee members from the government side were civil servants holding the rank of permanent secretary, ensuring comprehensive data and information sharing.
The chairman of the governor-elect’s transition committee and former deputy governor of Edo State, Dr. Pius Odubu, expressed his satisfaction with the state government’s efforts towards a seamless transition. He stressed the importance of transparency, stating, “Let’s not try to hide information so that the incoming government will be well briefed.”
Odubu encouraged the committee to work diligently to provide all necessary documents, in both hard and soft copies, to equip the incoming administration with the details needed for a successful start. He reiterated the committee’s readiness to collaborate fully, ensuring that the transition proceeds smoothly.
