By SIMON EBEGBULEM

BENIN — FOLLOWING the suspension of Orhiomnwon Local Government Council Chairman, Chief Roland Ibierutowhen, by Edo State House of Assembly over alleged unauthorised trip to Italy, Governor Adams Oshiomhole, yesterday, set up a caretaker committee to run the affairs of the council until investigations are concluded.

The council boss and his vice, travelled to Italy with 12 of the councillors, abandoning the affairs of the council for about two weeks.

The State House of Assembly, which frowned at their action, last Monday suspended the council boss and the entire legislative house indefinitely until investigations into their trip to Italy is concluded.

However, in a statement by the Secretary to Edo State Government, Professor Julius Ihonvbere, Governor Oshiomhole, appointed Mr. Iyobo Igharo as Chairman, Caretaker Committee, in Orhionmwon Local Government Council, pending the conclusion of enquiry into the alleged unauthorised journey outside the country by the chairman, vice chairman, councillors and secretary to the local government.

The statement directed “the supervisory councillors and special assistant in the council to work with the Caretaker Committee Chairman and members of the committee until the issue is resolved.”

The statement also “directs that the caretaker committee should assume duty immediately”.

Meanwhile, the state government also appointed Osagie Obayuwana as Chairman of the committee of enquiry to look into the alleged unapproved tour by the council officials.

The statement said: “I am directed to inform you that the Governor, Adams Oshiomhole has approved your appointment as member of the above committee in the capacity reflected against your name above.”