Momoh Umar Momoh, Benin
Dr. Caulson Osoikhia Oahimire, the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ESPHCDA) has been suspended by the State Government over alleged grave financial and official infractions.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG) Barrister Umar Musa Ikhilor disclosed this in a statement dated April 29, 2025 and made available to newsmen in Benin City.
The SSG said the most senior staff of the agency has been directed to act in a functioning capacity pending the outcome of a special committee to be constituted by the government.
He said the committee to be set up would investigate the various allegations and submit a report to the Governor.
According to him,”It is hereby announced for the info of the general public that the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of the Executive Secretary of ESPHCDA, Dr Caulson Osoikhia Oahimire, over allegations of grave financial and official infractions.
“Consequently, the most senior staff of the Agency will act in a functioning capacity pending the outcome of a special committee to be constituted by the Government to investigate the various allegations and submit a report to the Governor,” he said.
It could be recalled that Dr. Oahimire was confirmed on 11 February 2025 by the Edo State House of Assembly as the Executive Secretary.
The Executive Secretary of ESPHCDA was, however, suspended over two months in office.
Stallion Times reports that Governor Okpebholo, on 6 February 2025, suspended Hon Samson Osagie, the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, and Hon Damian Lawani, the former chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, for alleged financial interactions.
While Hon Samson Osagie had since been recalled, Hon Damian Lawani is still under suspension.
