Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has relieved Fred Itua of his duties as Chief Press Secretary (CPS), appointing Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele as his replacement.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, on December 4, 2025, and circulated to journalists in Benin City. While the official statement did not provide a direct reason for the dismissal, sources within government circles alleged that Itua’s removal was linked to poor performance and mounting pressure for a revamp of the governor’s media team.
Chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, including Ogbeide Ifaluyi-Isibor and Shadrach Udugbai, had consistently criticized the governor’s communication strategy, urging him to restructure his media operations. Their agitation earlier led to the replacement of the former Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Paul Ohonbamu, with Prince Kassim Afegbua.
The latest shake-up, insiders suggest, is part of Governor Okpebholo’s broader effort to strengthen his administration’s communication channels and ensure effective dissemination of government policies and programmes.
Dr. Patrick Ebojele, the newly appointed CPS, comes with an extensive background in journalism, public administration, and academia. His career spans several reputable Nigerian media houses, including Channels Television, where he served as Edo/Delta Correspondent, as well as roles with New Nigerian Newspaper, Champion Newspaper, and Comet Newspapers.
Beyond journalism, Dr. Ebojele is a seasoned researcher and lecturer, most recently serving in the Department of Public Administration at the Federal Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.
According to the government’s statement, his appointment reflects the administration’s commitment to clarity, transparency, and effective communication with the people of Edo State.
The government expressed gratitude to Fred Itua for his contributions during his tenure, noting that he will await reassignment to another role within the administration.
