- Okpebholo suspended Isere for allegedly raising funds using the government’s name without authorisation ahead of the oil summit.
- Edo government cancelled the August 7 summit and ordered the suspended aide to refund all donations already collected.
The governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has suspended his special adviser on oil and gas, Felix Osemwengie Isere, over alleged unauthorised fundraising.
In a statement released on Monday, secretary to the state government, Umar Ikhilor, confirmed the suspension and directed the cancellation of the planned oil and gas summit.
Ikhilor stated that the event, scheduled for August 7 in Benin City, has been suspended indefinitely.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the General Public that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has ordered the suspension of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Oil and Gas, Felix Osemwengie Isere from office, for unauthorized fund raising, using the name of Edo State Government for the proposed Oil and Gas Summit scheduled to hold in Benin City on Thursday 7th August, 2025,” the statement reads.
“In view of the foregoing, the proposed Summit is hereby suspended and Felix Osemwengie Isere has been ordered to refund monies to the various donors.”
“Prospective donors, are by this announcement, advised to desist from dealing with the suspended appointee.”
The Edo government’s decision comes after reports emerged that donations were being solicited using the state’s name without approval.
According to details published on the summit’s website, the Edo oil and gas summit 2025 was designed as a major platform to explore the state’s natural gas potential.
The event was also aimed at promoting collaboration, innovation, and sustainability as part of Nigeria’s broader energy transition.
The proposed summit was reportedly organised in partnership with Gas Aggregator Company Nigeria and the Edo State Government.
The initiative was expected to bring together investors, regulators, exhibitors, and host community stakeholders.
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