Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has named Oladele Bankole-Balogun as the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Board of Internal Revenue. While the announcement has been celebrated by some as a move to inject seasoned expertise into the state’s revenue operations, others are questioning whether this is yet another instance of political posturing with little real benefit for the people of Edo.
In a statement released on Saturday by Umar Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government, the governor also approved the appointment of three executive directors representing the state’s senatorial districts: Deacon Idiake Patrick Akhimien (Edo Central), Hon. Mike Ohio Ezomo (Edo North), and Hon. Engr. Jackson Eribo (Edo South). But some of us argue these appointments are heavy on political credentials and light on tangible plans for change.
The official announcement outlined Bankole-Balogun’s impressive resume, a graduate of the University of Ibadan, the University of London, and the College of Law in London, with affiliations to the Law Society of England and Wales, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the International Bar Association, among others. His professional background spans roles at Cadbury Nigeria, Pfizer UK, and various corporate boards, alongside stints in politics and law.
While his credentials shine on paper, we remain unconvinced about what these accolades will mean for Edo State’s citizens. “We’ve heard this story before big names, grand CVs, and yet, where are the policies that directly impact the lives of everyday people?” one observer quipped.
Bankole-Balogun has dabbled in Edo State politics, serving on the APC Campaign Council for the 2024 gubernatorial elections and previously vying for a seat in the House of Representatives. While his political ties are undeniable, some persons argue his past achievements have yet to translate into meaningful policies for Edo’s development. “It’s always the same script, positions handed out like rewards for loyalty, but what’s the benefit for the average Edo citizen?” another commentator noted.
The three newly appointed executive directors were also praised in the statement, but their roles remain undefined beyond representing their regions. The statement emphasized representation without outlining specific plans to address pressing issues like tax reform, transparency, or revenue management, topics central to the Board of Internal Revenue’s mission.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration has faced mounting criticism for making noise about reforms without implementing policies that truly improve lives. Many are waiting to see if this latest round of appointments will finally bring change or if it’s just another parade of political cronies filling seats.
“Edo deserves better than fancy résumés and hollow promises. What citizens need are policies that put food on the table, improve infrastructure, and ensure accountability in revenue collection,” one resident stated bluntly.
