Edo sends LGA heads on compulsory leave

The Edo State Local Government Service Commission has ordered all Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGAs) across the 18 local councils to proceed on a compulsory 30-day leave with immediate effect.

Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, made the announcement on Wednesday while addressing journalists in Benin City after the Commission’s inspection tour of the councils.

Adjoto said the decision was part of ongoing efforts to reform and strengthen administrative efficiency at the local government level.

“The Local Government Service Commission has reviewed the existing administrative framework across the 18 local government councils,” he said. “Consequently, the Commission hereby directs all Heads of Local Government Administration to proceed on compulsory leave with effect from today.”

He explained that the measure was necessary to allow for a thorough assessment of operations within the councils and to “encourage transparency, fairness, and a fresh administrative perspective.”

During the leave period, the Directors of Administration and General Services (DAGS) will take over the day-to-day running of the councils pending further directives from the Commission.

“All concerned officers are advised to hand over properly and comply with this directive without delay,” Adjoto added.

The chairman revealed that the ongoing digitalisation exercise within the local government system had already uncovered irregularities, including 382 shadow files and 132 retired files.

According to him, the development underscores the need for reforms to restore public confidence in grassroots governance.

Adjoto, who was sworn in by Governor Monday Okpebholo on August 16 as Chairman of the Commission, reaffirmed his commitment to repositioning the local government workforce and ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots.

He assured that the Commission would continue to pursue a reform agenda that prioritises accountability, staff welfare, and improved service delivery across Edo’s 18 councils.