Mr. Crusoe Osagie, media advisor to former Governor Godwin Obaseki, has condemned the review of e-government platforms by the Edo State government.
Naija News reports that the state government has ordered an immediate review of e-government platforms over concerns over data breaches and lack of administrative controls.
This was disclosed on Tuesday through a statement by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Umaru Musa Ikilolu.
The government said the review was necessary after it was discovered that the platform was being manipulated from the back end by “unknown non-state actors”, leaving the state’s public services without administrative control.
Contrary to reports on Monday that Governor Okpeboro had shut down the platform and reverted civil service operations to paper-based communication, Ikuhilor clarified that the e-government system would continue to function during the review.
He stressed that the review aims to restore administrative control and address the security risks posed by current arrangements.
“Some social media outlets are reporting that the state government has shut down the platform,” he said.
“This is seen as a serious threat to data security as the entire governance structure of a state is at the mercy of non-state actors, so-called consultants.Therefore, there is an urgent need to review this process.
“In view of the above and to redress this clear and present danger, His Excellency the Governor of Edo State and Senator Monday Okpeboro have ordered an immediate review of the entire e-government platform.
Mr Osagie responded by criticizing the review, calling it baseless and an attempt to undermine digital reforms initiated by the previous government.
He argued that the new government’s approach, which includes a return to paper-based processes, is “disgraceful, regressive and an insult to Edo workers.”
He further defended the platform, saying it is managed by the Ed ICT Agency under the Ministry of Digital Economy and is supported by consultants who ensure the efficiency of government operations.
“This irrational decision is not only shameful and regressive but also an insult to the sensibilities of Edo workers and the people of the nation.
“This further reveals the government’s ignorance and lack of depth and knowledge necessary for effective governance and administration in the 21st century.
“The platform is operated by the Edo ICT Agency, a quasi-government agency under the Edo State Ministry of Digital Economy, with the assistance of consultants to ensure an efficient system of government processes and operations.” Osagie said.
