Edo Governor Okpebholo To Launch Commission Of Inquiry Into Obaseki’s Administration

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced plans to establish a Commission of Inquiry to investigate the financial dealings and governance practices of his predecessor, former Governor Godwin Obaseki. The governor made this declaration on Friday during a victory parade at the Government House in Benin City, following the Supreme Court’s affirmation of his election victory.

The crowd gathered at the event comprised All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters, civil servants, youth groups, market women, and professional associations. Okpebholo, accompanied by his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, had just returned from Abuja after the final court verdict that upheld the APC’s win in the September 21, 2024 governorship election.

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Governor Promises Transparency and Accountability

Addressing the jubilant supporters, Okpebholo expressed gratitude to God for the judicial victory and pledged to focus on governance. He stated that within the next two years, Edo people would experience visible changes under his leadership.

He revealed that preliminary investigations into state agencies, particularly the Edo Geographic Information Service (EdoGIS), had uncovered questionable transactions. According to him, the previous administration had paid a consultant ₦6 billion and an additional ₦2 billion for what he described as “ordinary software.”

“In less than eight months in office, we have already discovered that N8 billion was spent on software. We found a consultant doing what our civil servants could do. So, we developed our own software, trained our staff, and sent the consultant packing,” Okpebholo disclosed.

He emphasized his administration’s resolve to prioritize local talent, noting that Edo has some of the brightest professionals in Nigeria. “We are saving money by empowering civil servants to take charge of duties once handed to external consultants,” he added.

 Commission of Inquiry to Investigate Eight-Year Administration

Okpebholo did not mince words in his vow to open the books of the previous government. He promised to probe the Obaseki-led administration, particularly its financial expenditures, and bring anyone found wanting to justice.

“A university in Edo received only ₦47 million under Obaseki, yet the government paid ₦51 million to a consultant. This imbalance is unacceptable. The time has come to open the records,” the governor declared.

He further said, “We will set up a Commission of Inquiry to review how Edo State was governed in the last eight years. This Commission will interrogate key actors and examine all financial and administrative dealings.”

According to Okpebholo, his administration will compare its performance over two years with Obaseki’s eight-year tenure to highlight what he believes will be a significant difference in governance quality and public impact.

“The fight is no longer theirs. I’m taking the gloves off. Edo people deserve to know how their resources were managed, and I will ensure those who mismanaged funds are held accountable,” he affirmed.

Appreciation to Tinubu and Commitment to Good Governance

The governor thanked President Bola Tinubu for standing firm throughout the legal battle and for ensuring that democratic processes were upheld. Okpebholo also pledged to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people of Edo State, highlighting ongoing reforms and development plans.

He was also quick to point out his inclusive governance style. “I have not sacked anyone since taking office. The Head of Service under the previous administration and many permanent secretaries are still working with me. We are focused on performance, not politics,” he said.

Deputy Governor, Former Deputy Applaud Supreme Court Verdict

Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, speaking at the event, praised Governor Okpebholo for his leadership throughout the legal process. He urged all party members to shift from campaign mode to governance, stressing that now was the time to work for the people.

Also present was former deputy governor Philip Shaibu, who congratulated the APC and the new administration for their victory at every judicial stage. He echoed the call for unity and development, urging the government to seize the moment and deliver on its promises.

“We must now get to work. This is a defining moment for Edo State. The people have made their choice, and it’s time to repay their trust,” Shaibu said.

As the crowd dispersed with chants and applause, the message from Governor Okpebholo was unmistakable: a new era of accountability and action has begun in Edo State. With a Commission of Inquiry on the horizon and reforms already underway, all eyes are now on the new administration to see if it can deliver on its bold promises.