Edo State Government Demands Evidence from Governor-Elect Monday Okpebholo on Looting Claims
The Edo State Government has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, to provide credible evidence supporting his allegations of looting and vandalism against government officials. This statement was made on Friday by Crusoe Osagie, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media Projects.
In the statement, the government challenged Okpebholo to identify the specific banks from which the administration has purportedly secured loans over the past three months, as part of his claims. Osagie emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, “The Edo State Government is requiring that Senator Monday Okpebholo furnish verifiable proof for his assertions that government officials are engaged in the looting and destruction of state assets.”
He further remarked that the Edo State Government takes such accusations seriously, asserting, “We do not tolerate unfounded or frivolous allegations. Okpebholo must recognize the gravity of governance in Edo State, and that the role of Governor is not meant for jesters.”
The demand for evidence stems from remarks made by Okpebholo on Wednesday, when his Special Assistant on Media, Godswill Inegbealso, voiced concerns over alleged misappropriations of government funds and properties by officials of the outgoing government helmed by Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Okpebholo urged banks to refrain from extending loans to the state government during this transitional phase and called for an in-depth investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Security (DSS).
In his public statement, Okpebholo expressed dismay over reports of extensive looting occurring in the final month of the current administration. He accused Governor Obaseki of allegedly acquiring loans from banks under dubious circumstances. Furthermore, he raised alarms about the alleged theft and destruction of government property, including vehicles, furnishings, electronics, and various household items.
He cautioned banks and financial institutions against engaging in any transactions that may jeopardize the state’s financial integrity during this transitional period. Okpebholo is set to take office on November 12, following the official handover.
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