Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has relieved Collins Aigbogun of his duties as Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation following his arrest and detention by the police.
Naija News reports that the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, confirmed the dismissal in a statement issued on Friday.
Aigbogun’s removal is connected to ongoing investigations into the violent anti-kidnapping protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, which later degenerated into unrest. The former aide was arrested as part of a probe ordered by the governor to establish the circumstances surrounding the protest.
At the time his appointment was terminated, Aigbogun was still in police custody.
Subsequently, Governor Okpebholo appointed Christopher Udobor Iyase as the new Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation. Iyase is widely recognised for his engagement with young people and is described as being committed to advancing youth welfare and development across the state.
The Edo State Government reiterated its resolve to uphold law and order, promote accountability in public service, and strengthen youth-focused initiatives throughout the state.
Meanwhile, Edo State Deputy Governor, Dennis Idahosa, has dismissed claims of a rift between himself and Governor Okpebholo, describing any attempt to undermine their relationship as “dead on arrival.”
In a statement made available to journalists in Benin on Friday, Idahosa said those behind such allegations are merely distractors unsettled by the administration’s focus on practical governance. The former House of Representatives member urged those spreading discord to channel their efforts toward issues that support and add value to the governor’s SHINE Agenda.