BENIN CITY, Edo State — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has terminated the appointment of Aigbodion Ewanifo Smart as Acting Managing Director of New Edo Line Limited over alleged managerial inefficiency.
The governor has appointed Engr. Paul F. Ogedegbe as the new Managing Director of the state-owned transport company, with both decisions taking immediate effect.
The changes were announced in a special government announcement dated October 18, 2026, and signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor.
According to the announcement, Smart’s appointment was terminated over alleged managerial inefficiency, although the state government did not provide specific details of the shortcomings that informed the decision.
Ogedegbe’s appointment is expected to usher in a new phase of leadership at the state-owned transport company. However, the government has yet to disclose his immediate priorities or outline any specific reforms planned for the organisation.
The management changes come as the Okpebholo administration continues to make appointments and adjustments within the state’s public institutions.
Further details regarding the circumstances surrounding Smart’s removal and the new managing director’s plans for New Edo Line Limited are yet to emerge.
