The suspended Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the State Flood Erosion and Watershed Management Agency, Mr. Ahmed Musa Momoh, has clarified that he was not involved in the turbaning ceremony and appointment of Chiefs and Village Heads by the Aidenogie of South-Ibie Kingdom in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
Speaking in Benin, Momoh addressed the claims surrounding his suspension, explaining that his visit to Edo North was for the purpose of inspecting gully erosion sites, and not to attend any ceremonial event. He stated that as the CEO of FEWMA, he had traveled to the region on Friday solely to oversee the progress of the gully erosion management projects, contrary to reports that linked him to the turbaning ceremony.
Momoh further explained that part of the directive from the European Investment Bank programme required him to engage with traditional institutions in communities where gully erosion work was being carried out. He noted that such engagements were necessary to prevent conflicts of interest, which is why he visited the traditional ruler during his trip. Additionally, he emphasized that he was unaware of any turbaning ceremony taking place during his visit.
He clarified that as per EIB World Bank standards, it was essential for his team to meet with local traditional institutions when addressing community issues, particularly in relation to the gully erosion sites in Edo North. Momoh also reiterated that he had no knowledge of any ceremonial activities during his time in the area.
He expressed his loyalty to the Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, offering his apologies for any confusion caused by the situation. Momoh reaffirmed his readiness to work with the governor to fulfill the promises made during his election campaign.
“And also, in our community, when we normally visit communities, the EIB World Bank standard is that, you must visit the community services and who are the community services? It has to start with the traditional institutions.
“So, I visited the three traditional institutions where we had reports on gully erosion sites in Edo North. And that is where I went to.
“I am not aware of any turban ceremony.”
