Benin – Gov. Adams Oshiomhole of Edo on Friday dissolved the state executive council ahead of his swearing-in for a second term on Monday.
The governor, who announced the dissolution at a valedictory executive council session in Benin, expressed appreciation to the outgoing commissioners "for their selfless service to the state.
"I want to use this opportunity to say how much I appreciate your efforts.
: "Four years down the road, working together, arguing, debating, even sometimes disagreeing, we have provided a collective leadership to the people of Edo State.
“ We have served them diligently with all our hearts,''
Oshiomhole said, “you are the least paid commissioners in the country but that did not dampen your morale to put in your best efforts.
“I want to thank you very much for what God has used you to do for me and your state. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made.
"I thought it wise that having worked so hard, it is right to appreciate you.
"On Sunday, I recognise it will be full time for the first tenure of this administration and when it is full time, no matter how interesting the game is, the referee must blow the whistle and end the game.
“The life of this council comes to an end on Sunday, not today, because that is when the end of the first tenure of this administration will come to an end. So, you are still commissioners even after this statement till 11.59p.m Sunday,'' he said
Responding on behalf of his colleagues, the outgoing Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Osagie Obayuwana, thanked the governor for giving them the opportunity and the free hand to serve.
He said "the experience of working with the governor had been a school of leadership for us, which was defined by the highest level of congeniality.
“I doubt if there is any other exco in any other state in the country comparable to the one we had here," he said.
Obayuwana said the last sitting "is a day of celebration because an example has been set that when there is a will, there will always be a way, and this will endure for all time.''
Oshiomhole will be sworn-in for a second term on Monday. (NAN)
