Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has officially approved the formation of a 14-member committee tasked with investigating the administration of his predecessor, former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
This committee, which will be inaugurated on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, is part of Governor Okpebholo’s initiative to ensure transparency, probity, and accountability in governance. The committee will focus on verifying state assets, reviewing government records, and determining the state’s financial health under Obaseki’s leadership.
The committee will be led by Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, who has been appointed as chairman. He will be supported by Anslem Ojezua, who will serve as the deputy chairman, and Frank Edebor, who will assume the role of secretary. The remaining members of the committee are high-profile individuals, each with experience in various sectors, including politics, business, and governance. These members include Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, Taiwo Akerele, Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie, Fredrick Unopah, Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.
The panel’s formation comes after increasing calls for transparency regarding the assets and liabilities left behind by the Obaseki administration. Governor Okpebholo has emphasized that his administration is committed to setting Edo State on the path of development through accountable leadership.
In a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Sunday, Okpebholo made it clear that despite several requests for a comprehensive database on the state’s assets and liabilities, the previous administration provided limited and incomplete information. The statement highlighted the governor’s commitment to upholding probity and transparency, which was a central promise during his election campaign.
“The establishment of the State Assets Verification Committee is crucial in ensuring that the people of Edo State are aware of the true state of the resources and debts left by the previous administration,” said Itua. He continued, “The committee will ensure that no stone is left unturned in investigating the assets, liabilities, and other aspects of governance under Obaseki’s tenure.”
The probe aims to provide an honest and complete picture of the state’s financial standing and to reassure Edo State residents that their resources are being managed with integrity. Governor Okpebholo’s administration has pledged to carry out a thorough investigation, with no attempts to conceal any information regarding the state’s assets.
Governor Okpebholo’s decision to set up the committee is seen by many as a critical move towards accountability, following concerns over the lack of clarity surrounding the management of state funds during the previous administration. The investigation is expected to be both comprehensive and rigorous, examining contracts, spending records, and any other relevant documents.
The governor’s office has reassured the public that the committee members were selected based on their integrity, experience, and dedication to the welfare of the people of Edo State. The diverse background of the committee members, with expertise spanning law, politics, and business, is expected to bring a well-rounded perspective to the investigation.
Some political observers believe that this move may also be a reflection of the ongoing political rivalry between Governor Okpebholo and former Governor Obaseki, who was elected under the same political party but later switched allegiance. Despite their previous collaboration, tensions between the two leaders have been visible, particularly after Okpebholo assumed office.
Governor Okpebholo’s initiative to probe Obaseki’s administration has sparked varied reactions from the public. Supporters of the current administration have welcomed the move, seeing it as a step towards restoring public trust and ensuring that the government is working for the people. However, critics of the governor have raised concerns that the investigation may be politically motivated.
Several residents of Edo State have voiced their concerns over the lack of transparency in Obaseki’s government, with many calling for a full accounting of the state’s financial standing. The creation of this new panel offers a sense of hope to those seeking answers. One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, commented, “We have been asking for this for a long time. We want to know what happened to the resources of the state. This investigation is a welcome development.”
Meanwhile, members of the opposition have expressed skepticism about the panel’s independence and impartiality. Some have suggested that the committee could be used as a political tool to target former Governor Obaseki and his allies. However, the Okpebholo administration has stressed that the investigation will be conducted with the utmost professionalism and integrity.
The committee is expected to work swiftly but thoroughly, with the goal of providing a detailed report on its findings. It is believed that the results of the investigation could have significant implications for the future direction of the state’s governance and economy.
As the committee prepares to begin its work, the people of Edo State are awaiting answers. They are looking for transparency and accountability, hoping that this investigation will shed light on the state’s financial situation and lead to better governance practices moving forward.
