Gov. Okpebholo suspends oil and gas adviser over unauthorized fundraising, halts upcoming summit

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has suspended his Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Felix Osemwengie Isere, following allegations of unauthorized fundraising activities tied to an upcoming Oil and Gas summit.

The suspension was made public in a statement issued on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Ikhilor. The statement revealed that Isere had allegedly solicited funds from donors without the approval or knowledge of the state government.

In swift response, Governor Okpebholo ordered the immediate suspension of the summit, which had been scheduled to commence on August 7. The governor also directed Isere to refund all monies already collected from donors in connection with the now-cancelled event.

“Due to the breach, the proposed summit is suspended, and Isere is directed to refund all monies collected from donors for the event,” the SSG said.

He further cautioned the public, saying: “Prospective donors are hereby advised to stop all dealings with the suspended adviser.”

The development has sparked conversations within government and industry circles, especially given the strategic importance of the Oil and Gas sector to the state’s economic agenda. While the government did not disclose how much was raised, sources close to the situation said concerns had been mounting over the lack of transparency surrounding the summit’s planning and fundraising efforts.

Governor Okpebholo’s decisive action signals a strong stance against procedural violations and unapproved financial dealings within his administration. It also underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, particularly in engagements involving public-private partnerships.