The Edo State Local Government Service Commission has directed all Heads of Local Government Administration across the state’s 18 local government councils to proceed on a 30-working-day compulsory leave.
The directive was announced on Wednesday by the Commission’s Chairman, Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, during a press briefing in Benin City on the outcome of the commission’s recent inspection visits to the councils.
Adjoto said the affected officials have been instructed to hand over to the Directors of Administrative and General Services in their respective councils, who will oversee operations during their absence.
He explained that the decision was aimed at allowing for a comprehensive review of the administrative framework and improving efficiency in local governance.
“The commission has reviewed the existing administrative structure across all councils and found it necessary to direct all Heads of Local Government Administration to proceed on compulsory leave,” Adjoto said. “This measure will ensure a fair and objective assessment of postings, staff deployment, and record management practices, as well as promote transparency and accountability.”
He added that the move forms part of the commission’s ongoing reform agenda, following feedback from its familiarisation visits to local governments. “It will provide an opportunity for a fresh administrative perspective and restore confidence in the local government system,” he noted.
During the leave period, Adjoto said the Directors of Administrative and General Services would handle the day-to-day running of council affairs pending further directives from the commission.
He also revealed that the commission’s digitalisation exercise recently uncovered 382 shadow files and 132 retired files, emphasizing the need for stronger administrative controls.
Adjoto reiterated the commission’s commitment to repositioning the local government workforce for better service delivery and to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots.
Governor Monday Okpebholo had appointed Adjoto, a former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, as Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission on August 16, with a mandate to reform and modernize local government administration in the state.
