BREAKING: Edo Governor Okpebholo Ousts CPS, Appoints Media Veteran Dr. Patrick Ebojele in Bold Move to Revamp Government Communication
By Passman Akpos
In a stunning shake-up that has sent ripples through Edo State’s political and media circles, Governor Monday Okpebholo yesterday relieved his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Fred Itua, of his duties and immediately installed veteran journalist and academic Dr. Patrick Ebojele Akhere as the new government spokesperson.
Announced Thursday night by the Secretary to the State Government, Musa Ikhilor, the move signals a renewed commitment to transparency, clarity, and proactive engagement between the state government and its citizens.
Described as a “renowned journalist, public administrator, researcher, and lecturer,” Dr. Ebojele brings decades of experience in media practice, public affairs, and academia. Observers say his appointment is a strategic effort to strengthen communication channels, ensuring that Edo residents are better informed about government policies, programs, and initiatives.
A statement from the government read:”This appointment reflects the commitment of the present administration to strengthen and deepen the communication channels between the Government and the good people of Edo State, ensuring clarity, transparency, and effective dissemination of Government policies, programmes, and activities.”
While Mr. Fred Itua awaits reassignment, the government expressed gratitude for his contributions, marking the transition as both respectful and strategic.
Dr. Ebojele’s appointment comes against the backdrop of growing concerns over press freedom in Edo State. Just days ago, Tarakirivoice reported a shocking incident at the Government House Festival Hall, where a female reporter from the state-owned Edo Broadcasting Service, Mrs. Juliet Enabulele-Asein, and cameraman Bright Osifo were allegedly assaulted by Governor Okpebholo’s aide, Kelly Okungbowa—popularly known as Ebo Stone.
The attack reportedly occurred during an empowerment program for 250 physically challenged individuals when non-beneficiaries attempted to enter the hall. Confronting the cameraman, Okungbowa allegedly struck Enabulele-Asein on the shoulder when she tried to intervene.
The Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) condemned the incident, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Okungbowa. The union described the act as an attack on press freedom, journalist safety, and the democratic role of the media.
With Dr. Ebojele stepping into the Chief Press Secretary role, Edo State is signaling a new era of professional, strategic, and scholarly-driven media engagement, promising more responsive and transparent communication from the Governor’s office—an approach many hope will strengthen press relations and restore public confidence in government messaging.
