The General Coordinator of the Edo Muslim for Equity and Good Governance (EMEGG), Shiekh Sirajudeen Muhammad has described the appointment of Barrister Musa Ikhilor as the Secretary to State Government (SSG) by Governor Monday Okpebholo as a fulfilled promise of inclusivity of Muslims in governance in Edo State.
Reacting to the announcement which was contained in a press release signed by Mr Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Shiekh Sirajudeen noted that the appointment has been warmly received by the state’s Muslim community, who saw it as a fulfillment of the Governor’s promise to ensure fair representation of Muslims in his administration.
The General Coordinator of EMEGG praised the Governor’s decision, noting that Ikhilor is a trusted and capable person who’s positive impact will be felt as one Governor Okpebholo’s administration can trust.
According to him, “During his campaign, Governor Okpebholo assured us of fair representation. We are happy seeing this promise being fulfilled beginning with the appointment of Barrister Ikhilor as SSG. This is an indication that the governor will surely fulfill his promise by making sure that Muslims are appointed into his carbinet. Barrister Ikhilor is an experienced person that will serve the people of Edo State well.”
“We have no regret in campaigning and voting for the APC. We are grateful on behalf of the Muslim community in Edo. We congratulate Barrister Musa Ikhilor on his new role and we commend Governor Monday Okpebholo for keeping to his promise to ensure fair representation of Muslims in governance. He has indeed made history today. For the first time since the creation of Edo State, Muslims have produced a principal officer in governance. With this, we believe that he will announce more Muslims in the coming days.” Sirajudeen noted.
Barrister Ikhilor is a seasoned legal professional with an impressive track record in governance. A graduate of Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, he earned his LL.B in 2008 with Second Class Upper Division honours, followed by a B.L. from the Nigerian Law School in 2009. In 2017, he furthered his education with an LL.M in Telecommunications Law from his alma mater.
With over 11 years of legislative experience, Barr. Ikhilor is an expert in drafting, parliamentary administration, and governance processes. He served as a Consultant to the Federal House of Representatives on the review of Nigeria’s 1999 Constitution, focusing on critical areas such as gender equity, human rights, and institutional transparency. In addition, he worked as Senior Special Assistant and later as Special Adviser to the Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, who also served as the 1st Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament. In 2022, he assumed the role of Acting Chief of Staff to the Deputy Speaker.
Beyond his government roles, Ikhilor is the Managing Partner of Springfield Legal Consult, provides consultancy services across public and private sectors, and is an Executive Director and Board of Trustees member of Amana Legacy Foundation. His extensive expertise and commitment to public service are expected to enhance Governor Okpebholo’s vision of an inclusive and effective administration.