Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has removed Samson Osagie from his position as Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice.
The move comes shortly after the governor swore in a new batch of commissioners, in which Osagie, one of the earliest appointees when Okpebholo took office, was not included.
Although the government did not officially announce Osagie’s dismissal, speculation had been mounting following the nomination of Prof. Roland Otaru as a new commissioner.
In addition to Osagie’s exit, Governor Okpebholo expanded the number of ministries in Edo State from 21 to 28.
According to a statement from the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, the restructuring is intended to align the state’s SHINE Agenda with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The government said the expansion aims to enhance coordination, boost efficiency, and strengthen the administration’s capacity to meet the needs of Edo residents.
The reshuffle also involved the reassignment of some commissioners:
Paul Ohonbamu, previously heading the Ministry of Information and Strategy, is now in charge of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs.
Prince Kassim Afegbua takes over Information and Strategy, while Omoh Anabor now leads Business, Trade and Investment.
Dr. Jerry Uwangue heads Agriculture and Food Security, Prof. Omorodion Ignatius Ikponwosa oversees Livestock Development, and Barr. Nosa Adams manages Environment and Sustainability.
Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole and Dr. Paddy Iyamu retain their roles in Health and Education, respectively.
The Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy currently has no commissioner assigned.
Reacting to his dismissal, Samson Osagie expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for the opportunity to serve, describing his tenure as a valuable and enriching experience.
