2027: Mass resignation hits Gov Okpebholo’s cabinet
Mass Resignation of Appointees Impacts Edo State Governor’s Administration
The administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State is experiencing a significant turnover after a mass resignation of political appointees. This follows a circular issued on February 28, 2026, by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor. The circular, released to the public on March 2, instructs all political appointees and civil servants interested in running for elective positions in the upcoming 2027 general elections to resign immediately.
Among those who have formally submitted their resignation letters are Dr. Washington Osifo, Commissioner for Water Resources and Sanitation; Dr. Lucky Eseigbe, Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development; Bar Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, the State Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC); and Pius Alile, the Deputy Chief of Staff to Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
In their letters to Ikhilor, the appointees expressed their intentions to contest various Federal House of Representatives seats. Dr. Osifo announced his candidacy for the Orhionmwon/Uhumwonde Federal Constituency, a seat currently held by Chief Billy Osawaru, who is seeking reelection.
Pius Alile also cited compliance with the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026 as a reason for his resignation. This Act requires all executive office holders, including political appointees, to step down before running for election. Alile is aiming for the Egor/Ikpoba Khai constituency, previously represented by Hon. Omoruyi Murphy Osaro, who recently switched from the Labour Party to the African Democratic Party.
Dr. Lucky Eseigbe is stepping down to pursue the seat for the Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency. Bar Uwadiae-Igbinigie resigned from his role as Special Adviser on Political Party Affairs to participate in the March 3, 2026, State Congress for the same position of Publicity Secretary within the APC.
This wave of resignations marks a pivotal moment in Edo State’s political landscape as the 2027 elections approach.
