Edo State Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, has issued a stern warning to Permanent Secretaries and heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to prevent the looting of government properties by political appointees as the Governor Godwin Obaseki-led government approaches its end.

Speaking on the matter, Shaibu said that any missing assets under their watch would result in them being held accountable by the incoming administration.

He noted that the political appointees, whose tenure ends on 11 November, include the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, Commissioners, and various Special Advisers and Assistants.

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WARNING TO PERMANENT SECRETARIES, HEADS OF MINISTRIES, DEPARTMENTS, AND AGENCIES

As our administration ends in a few weeks, I have issued a stern warning to Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to guard against the looting of government… pic.twitter.com/8TvciXHyFG

— Philip Shaibu (@HonPhilipShaibu) October 4, 2024

“As our administration ends in a few weeks, I have issued a stern warning to Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to guard against the looting of government properties by political appointees, as they would be held accountable by the incoming administration for any assets missing under their watch,” the Deputy Governor said.

He stressed that the responsibility for protecting state property lies with the Permanent Secretaries and directors of MDAs, adding that failure to act could result in serious consequences.

He also made it clear that removing government-owned items or fixed properties is a crime and will not be tolerated.

“Permanent Secretaries and heads of MDAs must be vigilant in safeguarding these assets. Should they fail to do so, they will be responsible for accounting for their inventories. It is crucial that all political appointees also refrain from engaging in such actions, which could lead to legal trouble,” Shaibu added.

The warning comes as the current Edo State administration prepares to transition, and the Deputy Governor’s comments highlight the importance of ensuring the safe handover of government assets to the incoming government.