Edo assembly approves Okpebholo’s request to appoint 20 aides

The Edo state house of assembly has approved the request for the appointment of 20 special advisers by Monday Okpebholo, the state governor.

The motion was moved during plenary by Charity Aiguobarueghian, the majority leader, and seconded by Eric Okaka, the minority leader.

Aiguobarueghian said section 196 (2) of the 1999 constitution empowers the governor to appointment special advisers.

In a unanimous decision, the lawmakers approved the appointment of 20 special advisers in the state.

A letter signed by Musa Ikhilor, secretary to the state government, Okpebholo said the appointment was for the smooth running of his administration.

Meanwhile, Okpebholo has flagged off the construction of a flyover bridge at Ramat Park, Benin City, as part of immediate efforts to reduce traffic congestion in the state capital.

At the flag off ceremony on Tuesday, Okpebholo said the completion of the flyover would transform the economy and social fortunes of the capital city and Edo state.

“Ramat Park is a gateway to Benin city and other parts of the country. Therefore, Ramat Park Fly-Over will provide a new lease of life for motorists in Benin City and communities along these two corridors; the Benin-Auchi Expressway and the Benin-Asaba Expressway,” he said.

“During our campaigns a few months ago, I specifically promised to construct fly-overs to ease transportation and reduce the traffic gridlock in our city.

“Today, one week into my administration, we are here to fulfil that promise and deliver the dividends of democracy.”

The governor said his administration would also construct two more flyover bridges at strategic locations in the state to ease traffic congestion.