With the formal inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as governor of Edo State, speculation is rife about who will join his team as cabinet members. Earlier, the newly sworn-in governor made his first appointment by naming Fred Odianosen Itua as his Chief Press Secretary (CPS).
The appointment has been lauded by the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), indicating a positive start to Okpebholo’s tenure. Itua, a cerebral journalist with The Sun Newspaper, will head Okpebholo’s media team. He is recognised for expertise in covering diverse and critical issues, from humanitarian crises to national governance.
As an accomplished writer, journalist as well as a media and communications consultant with over 13 years of experience, Itua is reputed for his strategic and resourceful approach, as he excels in crafting compelling narratives and breaking down complex topics for wider audiences.
An alumna of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, where he bagged a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, the new CPS holds a Master’s degree in Media Arts from the University of Abuja, and currently in the final stages of his Ph.D in Development Communication at the Veritas University, Abuja.
Prior to his appointment as CPS, Itua was the Director of Communications at The Sun Media Foundation, where he also anchors “Inside The Red Chamber”, an online television programme, and co-hosts the radio show “Bottom Line”. He brings a dynamic presence and a well-rounded understanding of media to every role.
Meanwhile, speculations are also rife about former Commissioner of Communication and Orientation, Barr. Andrew Emwanta, as the likely Chief of Staff to the governor. Although there is no official confirmation, his name has been mentioned and it is top on the list of the highly coveted position.
His appointment as Chief of Staff is likely due to his extensive experience in Edo State’s government affairs. As a former Commissioner of Communication and Orientation and later Youth and Gender Affairs, under the immediate past Governor Godwin Obaseki, he demonstrated his capabilities in governance. This versatility and adaptability could make him an attractive candidate for the Chief of Staff position. But sources in the know said Emwanta is a close friend to the new governor.
It is essential to note that Emwanta rejected a commissioner appointment following former Governor Obaseki’s cabinet reshuffling and he left the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) due to internal crises. This move, many say will also impact his potential appointment or role in Okpebholo’s administration.
It need be noted that Okpebholo’s campaign during the election, focused on key areas such as agricultural development, youth empowerment, and rural infrastructure, hence his appointees are likely to reflect these priorities, as his cabinet members – Commissioners and Special Advisers – are likely to be drawn from his campaign team and party loyalists, who are mainly experts in the aforementioned areas.
Senator Okpebholo was sworn in on Tuesday alongside his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa by the Chief Justice of the State, Daniel Okungbowa at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin-City. They both pledged to uphold the constitution, work within its dictates, and ensure the well-being of the people of the state.
Supporters of the party at the stadium cheered throughout the oath-taking ceremony, marking the beginning of a new administration in the state.
