Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has relieved Fred Itua of his duties as Chief Press Secretary (CPS) and appointed Dr. Patrick Ebojele Akhere as his replacement.

The announcement was made in a statement issued on December 4, 2025, by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, in Benin City. Although the statement did not specify a reason for Itua’s removal, sources revealed that his sack may be linked to alleged poor performance.

Political figures within the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), including Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor and Shadrach Udugbai, had repeatedly called on Governor Okpebholo to overhaul his media team. Their pressure earlier contributed to the replacement of the former Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Paul Ohonbamu, with Prince Kassim Afegbua.

Ikhilor explained that the appointment of Dr. Ebojele aligns with the government’s goal of strengthening communication and ensuring better engagement with the people of Edo State.

The statement read:

“The Edo State Government wishes to notify the general public that His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, Executive Governor of Edo State, has approved the appointment of Dr. Ebojele Akhere Patrick as the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor.”

It further described Dr. Ebojele as an accomplished journalist, researcher, and public administrator with years of experience across reputable media organisations. He previously served as Edo/Delta Correspondent for Channels Television and worked with New Nigerian Newspaper, Champion Newspaper, and Comet Newspapers.

Dr. Ebojele, who will step in immediately, replaces Fred Itua, who will be reassigned to a new role in due course. The government expressed appreciation for Itua’s service.

Before his appointment, Dr. Ebojele lectured at the Department of Public Administration, Federal Polytechnic, Auchi.

The shake-up marks another step in the administration’s efforts to revamp its communication strategy and improve public outreach.