The Edo State Government has terminated the appointment of Tony Ikpasaja, Managing Director of the Edo Geographic Information Service (EDOGIS), following his issuance of an unauthorized notice claiming to revoke the Certificate of Occupancy for Presco Plc’s 13,545-hectare land.
The controversial notice, dated November 21, 2025, referenced Sections 28 and 38 of the Land Use Decree No. 6 of 1978, citing “public interest” and the presence of oil wells on the property. However, the state clarified that the action was unauthorized and taken without gubernatorial approval, stressing that it does not reflect official policy.
In a statement, Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor confirmed that Governor Monday Okpebholo approved Ikpasaja’s removal. The next most senior officer in EDOGIS has been directed to assume duties in an acting capacity pending the appointment of a permanent Managing Director. The government said the move is part of a broader effort to restructure EDOGIS for improved efficiency, oversight, and service delivery.
Edo State emphasized that Presco Plc’s statutory rights remain intact, noting that only a small portion of the land—around 20 hectares containing strategic crude oil wells—was under technical review. The state highlighted that mineral resources are federally controlled, meaning no private entity can lawfully claim ownership over land containing oil reserves.
Authorities have launched an administrative review to investigate the former MD’s unilateral action and strengthen internal controls to prevent similar incidents. The government reiterated its commitment to transparent land administration, orderly engagement with investors, and protection of strategic public assets, particularly in oil and gas sectors.