BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the immediate renovation of the Doctors’ Residence at Ezoti following reports of its deplorable condition.
The decision was disclosed during an on-site inspection of the facility led by the State Head of Service, Dr. Anthony Okungbowa, accompanied by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu; the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomole, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Dr. Stanley Ehiarimwian and members of the Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), Edo State Chapter.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Dr. Okungbowa said that the approval underscored Senator Okpebholo’s style of practical governance and commitment to workers’ welfare under his SHINE Agenda.
He noted that within 24 hours of receiving the report, the government had dispatched an inspection team to begin follow-up action.
“We reiterated the challenges faced by doctors to the Governor and he immediately directed the Public Building Agency to commence work here.
“What we see is truly deplorable, but joy has come. In his usual manner, the Governor has approved urgent renovation of the residence, reflecting his passion for workers’ welfare and practical governance,” Okungbowa said.
The HOS also disclosed that the State Government had concluded plans to reschedule the payment of outstanding arrears dating back to 2024, to be disbursed in tranches.
He assured the medical community that government recognized their critical role in service delivery and would not allow them to be burdened unnecessarily.
On his part, Dr. Iyamu condemned the state of the building, describing it as “unfit for habitation,” while assuring that it would soon be restored to habitable standards.
President of ARD, Edo Chapter, Dr. Peter Evbuomwan, who spoke on behalf of his colleagues, thanked the Governor for the intervention.
“At least, now, government is aware of the situation and has promised urgent action. We are optimistic that the place will soon be renovated and made livable again,” he said.
