Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has officially announced the removal of Aigbogun Collins from his role as Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation. This significant development unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing investigations into a violent anti-kidnapping protest that recently took place in Ekpoma, situated within the Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State. The protest escalated into widespread destruction and extensive looting of private and public property, triggering a decisive directive from the governor for a comprehensive probe into the causes and perpetrators of the unrest. Reports from various sources indicate that the former aide, Aigbogun Collins, was reportedly taken into custody as part of these investigations, following the governor's explicit order for a thorough inquiry into the disturbance.

Subsequent to Collins's dismissal, Governor Okpebholo has moved swiftly to approve the appointment of Christopher Udobor Iyase as the new Special Adviser on Youth Mobilisation. The change in leadership was formally confirmed in an official statement released by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Umar Musa Ikhilor. The statement, which was disseminated to journalists in Benin City, explicitly stated that Iyase would immediately assume the responsibilities previously held by Collins. In his announcement, the SSG lauded Iyase, describing him as a highly dedicated and fervent youth mobiliser, recognized for his profound passion and unwavering commitment to advancing the wellbeing and development of young people across all regions of Edo State, underscoring his deep engagement with youth-related initiatives.