Okpebholo removes SUBEB chairman, appoints Oyakhilome as successor

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has removed Sonia Ebanehita Omonzane as Executive Chairman of the Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

The governor has appointed Ayewoh Ambrose Oyakhilome as her replacement, in the latest leadership change at the state’s basic education agency.

The development was announced on Tuesday in a statement issued by the Secretary to the Edo State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.

Omonzane’s removal makes her the fourth individual to leave the leadership of SUBEB since Okpebholo assumed office.

Before becoming SUBEB chairman, Omonzane served on the Edo State Board for Technical and Vocational Education. She was transferred to SUBEB in May 2025 following the removal of Onomen Goodness Briggs as chairman of the board.

Briggs was subsequently redeployed to the Board for Technical and Vocational Education, while Omonzane was appointed to lead SUBEB.

Before Briggs’ tenure, Dr Paddy Iyamu served as SUBEB chairman. He was removed by Governor Okpebholo and subsequently appointed Commissioner for Education.

Oyakhilome, the newly appointed chairman, was previously the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Rural Access Roads Agency (RARA), where he was involved in government programmes focused on rural road development, connectivity and infrastructure.

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The state government said his appointment was based on his experience in public administration and involvement in the implementation of government programmes.

As SUBEB chairman, Oyakhilome will oversee the agency responsible for coordinating basic education policies and programmes across Edo State.

His responsibilities will include supporting initiatives aimed at improving school infrastructure, learning conditions and the overall quality of basic education in the state.

The latest leadership change comes as the Okpebholo administration continues to reshuffle key agencies and boards as part of its efforts to strengthen the implementation of government policies and programmes.