The Governor-elect of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has made serious allegations against the outgoing administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki. According to Okpebholo, officials from the Obaseki-led government have been engaging in large-scale looting of government properties and funds in the days leading up to the November 12 handover.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Okpebholo expressed shock at the alleged actions of the outgoing government. He warned financial institutions to steer clear of granting loans to the Obaseki administration in its final days, citing concerns over the legitimacy of such transactions.
“With great shock, we regret the widespread reports of looting of government funds and properties by officials of the outgoing administration from the Government House, Benin City,” Okpebholo declared. He went on to say that this behavior deeply undermines the trust and confidence of Edo citizens.
The governor-elect highlighted reports of widespread theft and vandalism of state properties. According to him, items ranging from vehicles and furniture to household utensils and even carpets were allegedly carted away from government offices and residences. “This unacceptable behaviour undermines the trust and faith of our citizens in those entrusted to serve them in the past 8 years,” Okpebholo stated.
Okpebholo, who is set to assume office next month, called on security agencies to launch a full investigation into the alleged looting. He emphasized that those found guilty should be held accountable for their actions. Additionally, he urged security forces to protect government facilities from further vandalism.
The accusations come at a time of increasing tension between the outgoing administration and the incoming one. The transition between governors is always a sensitive period, and Okpebholo’s allegations have raised alarm about the state of Edo’s finances and public assets as the handover date approaches.
Okpebholo also raised concerns about last-minute financial transactions reportedly being made by the Obaseki government. He warned banks and other financial institutions against approving loans for the outgoing administration, expressing fears that such actions could harm Edo State’s finances in the long term.
“It is sad that barely one month to handover, the outgoing administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki is still allegedly obtaining loans from banks and other financial institutions under very shady headings,” Okpebholo remarked.
Loans taken by outgoing administrations are often viewed with suspicion. Analysts say that these last-minute financial moves can sometimes be designed to create obligations for the incoming government, leaving them saddled with unnecessary debt. Okpebholo’s statement is a clear indication that he intends to avoid such financial traps, urging financial institutions to refrain from involvement in any questionable transactions.
“I am calling on all financial institutions to be cautious and refrain from granting any loans to the outgoing government. This administration has only weeks left, and the future of Edo’s finances must not be compromised,” the governor-elect warned.
As the political climate in Edo heats up, Okpebholo’s allegations are not the first sign of tension between his camp and Obaseki’s administration. Over the past few months, there have been murmurs of dissatisfaction, with various political observers predicting a turbulent transition.
However, Okpebholo’s latest statement has brought the issue to the forefront, with many Edo residents now keenly watching how the situation will unfold. The governor-elect’s call for accountability, particularly regarding the looting of government properties, has struck a chord with the public. Many citizens believe that transparency and justice are essential to restoring trust in Edo’s government.
In his statement, Okpebholo emphasized the importance of holding those responsible for the alleged looting accountable. He stressed that it is crucial for Edo to move forward with a clean slate and ensure that public trust is not further eroded.
“We are also aware of the massive looting and vandalisation of properties including vehicles, furniture, gadgets, household utensils and even carpets from offices and residences of the Edo state government,” Okpebholo said. He added that the security agencies must do everything within their power to prevent further looting and investigate the allegations thoroughly.
Okpebholo’s statement follows a recent call by Philip Shaibu, the reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, for permanent secretaries and heads of government agencies to ensure political appointees do not loot government properties. Shaibu’s appeal highlights the growing concerns about the safeguarding of state assets during the transition period.
