Okpebholo orders review of e-governance platform over non-state actor control

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has directed an immediate review of the state’s e-governance platform following revelations that it is controlled and operated by unidentified non-state actors.

The directive was announced in a “Government Special Announcement” dated November 25, 2024, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor.

The statement, shared with journalists on Tuesday, noted concerns about data security and the lack of administrative control by the state’s public service over the platform.

The statement clarified, “The attention of the Edo State Government has been drawn to reports suggesting that the Senator Monday Okpebholo-led administration has shut down the e-governance platform initiated by the previous administration. This is entirely false.”

It continued, “While officials and staff of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) are to continue using the e-governance platform during the review process, it has been observed that the platform is being operated from the backend by unknown non-state actors. No one within Edo State’s public service has administrative control of the platform.”

The statement described this situation as a severe data security threat, placing the state’s governance structure at the mercy of external parties or so-called consultants.

Governor Okpebholo’s directive aims to restore full administrative control and institutional memory within the platform, ensuring data security and operational reliability.

“While the review is ongoing, MDAs are directed to continue their operations on the platform. However, urgent measures are being taken to address this clear and present danger,” the statement added.

The government reassured the public that the e-governance platform has not been shut down and emphasized its commitment to enhancing the platform’s functionality and security.