Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has suspended his Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Felix Isere, over allegations of unauthorized fundraising related to the upcoming Edo Oil and Gas Summit.
The governor has also ordered an immediate suspension of the summit, which was previously scheduled to commence on August 7.
The suspension was made public on Tuesday through a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor, who emphasized that the adviser acted without official approval in soliciting funds for the event.
“In view of the foregoing, the proposed summit is hereby suspended, and Felix Isere has been ordered to refund all monies collected to the various donors,” the SSG’s statement read.
He further cautioned all stakeholders:
“Prospective donors are hereby advised to stop all dealings with the suspended appointee.”
The development has sparked speculation within Edo’s political and business circles, as the summit was expected to attract investors and key industry players.
The governor’s swift action signals a zero-tolerance stance on impropriety, especially in sensitive sectors like oil and gas.
This marks one of the first major disciplinary decisions by Senator Okpebholo since assuming office, underscoring his administration’s push for accountability and transparency in public service.
