Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
Former Head of Service of the federation, Mr. Stephen Osagiede Oronsaye, has said his suspension as the then head of service to the federation was illegal.
He disclosed this while delivering his address as a keynote speaker at the launch of the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), named after John Odigie Oyegun to mark his contributions to the growth of the civil service and his 84th birthday celebration in Benin City.
Mr. Oronsaye said he stopped on many toes while serving as the HoS in a bid to reform the civil service and that he has no regret for all that he did.
Oronsaye, said “without a motivated workforce, no administration can deliver on its mandate hence academy like this is needed.”
On the part of the celebrant, Chief John Odigie Oyegun who recalled the honour done the late first Nigeria female senator, Franca Afegbua and granting of automatic employment to first class graduates who are of Edo indigenes, by the state governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, said he is so proud and fulfilled to have had a building named after him while he is still very much alive.
Oyegun who also narrated his journey in the civil service and how he rose to the position of Super Permanent Secretary, said though his stay was short having retired at the age of 48, added that a leader must be focused and ready to take risk.
He commended the state governor for laying a foundation that will stand the taste of time, stressing that the governor is the man who envisage the future.
Earlier, the state governor, Godwin Obaseki said that the celebrant, Chief Oyegun represents fidelity, frugality and that his life style is worthy of emulation.
“The academy is named after the first Executive Governor of Edo State and former Permanent Secretary, Chief John Odigie Oyegun, who embodies the fine ethos of integrity, fidelity and excellence”, Obaseki said.
While commending him further, he said the state is only building on the achievements and successes of those who have once ruled the state.