Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reinstated Dr. Caulson Osoikhia Oahimire as the Executive Secretary of the Edo Primary Health Development Agency (EPHDA), following a thorough investigation that absolved him of all allegations of financial and official misconduct.
Dr. Oahimire was suspended in April this year after a petition was submitted by a staff member of the agency, alleging serious financial infractions involving funds from UNICEF and other development partners, earmarked for immunization programmes and life support training.
At the time, the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Ikhilor, issued a statement announcing the suspension. It read: “In view of allegations of grave financial and official infractions, the Executive Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has ordered the immediate suspension of Dr. Caulson Osoikhia Oahimire.” The statement further noted that the most senior officer in the agency would take over in an acting capacity pending the outcome of the investigation.
According to the petition, the funds in question were allegedly drawn from the Basic Health Support Fund and were purportedly misused under the guise of training medical doctors, nurses, and community health extension workers.
However, following weeks of inquiries, a special panel set up by the government completed its work and cleared Dr. Oahimire of all wrongdoing. “Investigation was carried out into the allegations and a panel was set up. The suspended Executive Secretary was exonerated by the panel,” the official report confirmed.
Speaking after his reinstatement, Dr. Oahimire expressed gratitude to the Governor and all those involved in ensuring a fair investigation. He said he bore no grudge against the petitioner and expressed his willingness to continue working with all staff of the agency in accordance with civil service principles.
He also thanked stakeholders and supporters who showed confidence in his integrity throughout the process. “I am grateful to everyone who played a role in ensuring the truth came to light. I remain committed to improving primary healthcare delivery in Edo State,” he said.
