Edo State’s political scene has taken another dramatic turn, as Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu has raised alarm over what he calls last-minute looting by Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration.
Shaibu, who was recently reinstated after a tense political standoff, made shocking accusations against his principal, Governor Obaseki, alleging that plans were being made to loot state funds before the administration leaves office.
During a press briefing in Benin City on Friday, Shaibu announced a reward of ₦1 million for anyone who could provide information on the alleged looting. He said he had substantial evidence to back his claims, which involved misappropriation of funds, secret borrowing, and shady appointments in the final days of the administration.
“I have received disturbing reports that Governor Obaseki is planning to loot government property before the administration ends,” Shaibu said.
The Deputy Governor called on financial institutions to stop granting last-minute loans to the Edo State government. He also urged national anti-corruption agencies, such as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS), to investigate the allegations and prevent further financial harm to the state.
Shaibu expressed his deep concern over reports that financial institutions were approving last-minute loans to Governor Obaseki. He warned banks and other financial institutions to cease any further transactions with the government in the administration’s remaining days in office.
“I am issuing a strong warning to banks and financial institutions not to grant any loans or issue financial instruments to Governor Obaseki or any official of the state government in whatever capacity,” Shaibu stated firmly.
He described the last-minute borrowing as an irresponsible move that would harm Edo State’s finances and potentially mortgage the state’s future.
“This is alarming, and not in good faith,” he added, emphasizing that the loans could jeopardize the financial stability of the state.
In addition to accusing the administration of taking out questionable loans, Shaibu revealed that there were plans to siphon state funds using non-governmental organizations (NGOs) as a front.
He claimed that these organizations were being used as a cover for looting state resources under the guise of supporting their activities and projects.
“Information at my disposal shows there are last-minute plans to siphon state funds using NGOs as a decoy,” Shaibu said. “These actions undermine the financial stability of our state, and I strongly dissociate myself and my office from any such dealings.”
He called on the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity regarding the state’s finances.
Shaibu further alleged that funds meant for several key infrastructure projects were being mismanaged. He specifically mentioned funds allocated for the Ministry of Roads and Bridges and the ongoing Radisson Hotel project.
He expressed disappointment that money meant to improve the lives of Edo citizens was being misused in the final days of the administration.
“Funds for key projects, such as those in the Ministry of Roads and Bridges and the Radisson Hotel, are being misappropriated,” he said. “This is unacceptable, and it is happening at a time when the administration should be focused on handing over smoothly.”
Shaibu also criticized the Obaseki administration for making secret appointments into the state’s civil service in its final hours.
He described these appointments as clandestine and indiscriminate, alleging that the newly appointed staff were being placed in high grade levels without due process.
“There are reports of indiscriminate and clandestine appointments into the civil and public service with outrageous grade levels,” Shaibu said.
These appointments, he warned, could have serious implications for the state’s workforce and create financial burdens for the incoming administration.
