In a striking revelation, Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of borrowing between N2 billion and N5 billion to finance the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo as the incoming governor. This allegation comes amid ongoing tensions as the transition period approaches.
During a recent event marking the establishment of a caretaker committee in Benin City, Governor Obaseki expressed grave concerns about the financial management practices of the APC. He claimed that the incoming administration has already begun to deplete nearly N27 billion allocated for various projects and obligations under his leadership. Obaseki criticized the APC for what he described as an attempt to manipulate public perception by spending extravagantly during a politically sensitive time.
“The actions of the APC in borrowing such a significant amount for an inauguration raise serious questions about their commitment to fiscal responsibility,” Obaseki stated. “It is alarming that, instead of focusing on governance and the welfare of Edo citizens, they are prioritizing a lavish inauguration funded by questionable loans.”
Obaseki further lamented his government’s exclusion from the inauguration planning process, emphasizing that transparency and accountability should be paramount during such transitions. He reiterated his commitment to supporting the party while advocating for the reclamation of what he termed their “stolen mandate” through lawful means.
The political climate in Edo State remains charged as both the APC and the outgoing administration exchange accusations regarding financial mismanagement. The APC has countered Obaseki's claims by alleging that his government misappropriated over N14 billion in just one week, further complicating an already contentious political landscape.