3rd June, 2015
Jethro Ibileke/Benin
Governor Adams Oshiomhole of Edo state Tuesday inaugurated an administrative panel of enquiry on the suspension of Etsako West Local Government Chairman, Hon Alasa Mohammed.
Speaking at the ceremony, Oshiomhole charged members of the panel to look into the immediate and remote causes of the protest which occurred at the premises of the Etsako West Local Government Area.
“On the 22nd of May, there were reports both in the print and electronic media as well as security reports about protests around Auchi but thanks to the intervention of the Nigerian Police and Operation Thunder storm, it was brought under control.
“There were all sorts of allegations behind the protest though some of those involved in it include the leadership of the Student Union Government in Auchi Polytechnic and some other persons. The issue as to who is responsible, who organized the protest, financed it, instigated it is the matter for your investigation.”
The governor added, “We have acted on the basis of these allegations but it remains an allegation until they are proven. Though yours is not a judicial enquiry, yours is an administrative panel which will help us to establish the facts, not necessarily the law about what happened. Was there a protest? Who was involved, who was behind the protest, if anyone was behind it, who financed it, if it was financed and whatever information you think is necessary.
“By way of terms of reference therefore, your panel is expected to examine the immediate and remote causes, actors and the implications of the said protest; to look into the alleged involvement of members of the Student Union of Auchi Polytechnic in the said protest with a view to identifying their possible sponsor and/or those who instigated them and any other matter which could be relevant to helping us understand what led to the protest and how to avoid a future occurrence.”
Governor Oshiomhole noted, “We encourage you to make appropriate recommendations in good faith to the extent that such recommendations in your view will help government to avoid a repetition in future.
“Naturally, we will expect some pressure from certain quarters who might seek to influence your findings but I have had cause to say in different fora that the truth does not require supporters club, it has its leg, hands and head and can stand on its own. So, just help us to establish the truth and with the benefit of your own recommendations, that we can find a lasting solution to incidents like this.”
The governor who expressed confidence in the members of the Panel, thanked them for accepting to serve, believing that they will carry out the exercise as objectively as possible.
Responding on behalf of other members, Chairman of the Administrative Panel of Enquiry, Nosagie Osifo Esq; thanked the Governor for the confidence reposed on them assuring that they will not fail.
Members of the Panel of Enquiry include Nosagie P. Osifo, Esq., Chairman; Barr. Itohan Okungbowa, Secretary while Barr. Osazee Ojo, Mr. Francis Uwaifo and Marcus Onobun will serve as members.