Edo State Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has denied claims that he signed a $45.21 million deal with China Exim Bank to build flyover bridges in Benin City.
Okpebholo assured Edo residents that he has no plans to burden the state with unnecessary debt and criticized the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for spreading what he called “lies and misinformation.”
He addressed these claims in a statement through his media aide, Godswill Inegbe, after reports surfaced alleging he had secured a deal with the Chinese bank.
The Governor-elect stressed that as a governor-elect, he has no authority to secure loans on behalf of the state.
He described the report as a desperate attempt by those who lost the September 21 election to disrupt his plans for Edo’s future.
In his statement, Okpebholo remarked, “I am not in any official position to obtain loans or sign deals until I am formally sworn in.”
The Governor-elect emphasized that he would focus on economic recovery by addressing existing debts rather than creating new ones.
“I am working on offsetting the numerous loans taken by Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration without any corresponding development in Edo,” Okpebholo added.
He used the opportunity to assure the people of Edo that he would not become what he termed “another MoU governor,” taking a swipe at his predecessor Obaseki.
The phrase “MoU governor” refers to a series of deals and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed by Obaseki’s administration that critics argue led to little or no development in the state.
Okpebholo also clarified the context of a recent meeting he had with Chinese officials.
The Governor-elect said he was invited to the office of the Chinese Ambassador in Abuja, where he took a photo that has now been circulated online to support the loan claim.
He confirmed that his visit to the Chinese ambassador’s office was purely diplomatic and unrelated to any financial deal.
The PDP, which lost the recent election to Okpebholo, alleged that his meeting with Chinese representatives was part of a larger agreement involving millions of dollars in loans for infrastructure projects.
Okpebholo accused the PDP of “spreading falsehoods” to create a distraction during his transition process.
“These accusations are from those still licking their wounds after losing the election,” he stated.
The Governor-elect warned the outgoing PDP administration to avoid “petty rumors” and instead focus on ensuring a smooth transition of power.
Okpebholo believes that attempts to disrupt his administration before it even begins reveal a deeper political agenda.
The incoming governor has repeatedly promised that his administration will focus on financial prudence and avoid plunging the state into further debt.
He stated that his government would prioritize Edo’s growth and stability without “relying on empty agreements or MoUs.”
As part of his vision for Edo, Okpebholo said he intends to focus on tangible developments rather than public relations.
“I am not here to make empty promises or enter into MoUs that do not serve Edo State’s best interests,” Okpebholo said.
In another part of the statement, Okpebholo expressed his commitment to managing Edo’s resources effectively and responsibly.
“My administration will be dedicated to using Edo people’s resources to develop the state,” he declared.
The Governor-elect further urged the PDP and the outgoing administration to apologize to Edo citizens for what he described as years of mismanagement.
“Instead of promoting lies, they should seek forgiveness from the good people of Edo for their past mistakes,” Okpebholo stated.
Okpebholo’s criticism of his predecessor’s financial management has been a recurring theme throughout his campaign and post-election period.
The governor-elect has repeatedly assured Edo residents that his leadership would prioritize fiscal responsibility.
Okpebholo accused the outgoing administration of “mortgaging the future of Edo people” and failing to deliver on their promises.
He stated, “I will not be a looter of public funds but will manage Edo’s resources to ensure the state’s development.”
As Edo prepares for the leadership change, Okpebholo urged his supporters and all Edo residents to disregard any rumors about his intentions.
“Any claims suggesting that I have signed deals or secured loans for flyover projects are completely false,” he assured.
Okpebholo emphasized that his administration would be marked by transparency and integrity.
He insisted that his vision for Edo includes prudent use of resources, real developments, and rebuilding trust in government.
“Our state deserves leadership that genuinely cares for its people and their future,” he declared.
