Okpebholo reinstates AAU staff dismissed by Special Intervention Team

By Tony Osauzo, Benin

Reprieve has come to some members of the Academic Staff Union of Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma, who were relieved of their appointments in 2023 by the defunct Special Intervention Team (S.I.T) of the institution, following the decision of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to reinstate them.

In a statement issued Monday, the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, confirmed that Governor Senator Monday Okpebholo had approved their immediate reinstatement.

The statement read, “His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo has approved the immediate reinstatement of staff of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, who were unlawfully disengaged from the service of the institution by the defunct Special Intervention Team (S.I.T.) in March 2023 under the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.”

It further noted that the affected staff, who were members of the Academic Staff Union of the University, were unjustly relieved of their appointments after they agitated for the payment of outstanding salaries and other entitlements owed to them by the Obaseki administration.

The government of Governor Okpebholo emphasised its commitment to natural justice, equity, and good conscience, affirming that it would correct any perceived injustices meted out to the citizens of Edo State.

The statement concluded, “This reinstatement, therefore, demonstrates His Excellency’s commitment to and adherence to the rule of law in governance at all times.”