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Tag: Monday Okpebholo

  • Edo hosts policy dialogue to mark Gov Okpebholo’s 100 days in office

    Edo hosts policy dialogue to mark Gov Okpebholo’s 100 days in office

    In commemoration of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first 100 days in office, the Edo State Government, in collaboration with Policy House International, held a policy dialogue on February 21, 2025, at the John Oyegun Public Service Academy. 

    The event brought together civil servants, academics, business leaders, security officials and civil society groups to assess governance progress and discuss economic growth, education, public safety, and infrastructure development.

    Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Ikhilor, emphasised the administration’s commitment to citizen engagement and infrastructure development. 

    “The government is making massive investments that will ease hardship, accelerate growth, and improve quality of life over the next few years,” he said, adding that continuous dialogue with citizens would help prevent misconceptions about government policies.

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    Special Adviser on Oil and Gas, Barr Felix Iserr, highlighted the state’s push for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) as an alternative energy source. 

    He called for a more transparent local content policy in the oil and gas sector, ensuring local contractors benefit from procurement activities. 

    “We must diversify our economy beyond a civil service structure into mining, oil and gas, and a vibrant SME sector,” he stated.

    Discussions also focused on education, with stakeholders calling for better funding, recruitment of qualified teachers, and a review of the EdoBEST program. 

    Commissioner for Education, Dr Paddy Iyamu, stressed the need to invest in technology-driven learning and strengthen education monitoring systems. “We cannot afford to let infrastructure decay; quality education requires both physical and intellectual investment,” he said.

    On security, participants commended the amended anti-cultism law and called for greater intelligence-sharing among Edo and neighboring states. Retired CSP Yusuf Haruna underscored the need for community-driven security initiatives. “A collaborative approach involving government, security agencies, and citizens is crucial to tackling crime,” he noted.

    Discussions on healthcare emphasized the government’s commitment to expanding free malaria treatment and improving access to primary healthcare. Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, Commissioner for Health, urged state officials to patronize public hospitals to boost confidence in the sector. “Leadership by example is key to strengthening our healthcare system,” he said.

    The event also addressed food security, with stakeholders praising the revival of the Igarra Cattle Ranch and increased agricultural investments. However, concerns were raised over farmer-herder conflicts, with calls for decisive action to resolve disputes.

    Policy House International’s Executive Director, Taiwo Akerele, described the dialogue as a vital step in strengthening governance and accountability. “Edo State has the potential to be among Nigeria’s top five economies in the next five years, but bold policy choices are needed,” he stated.

    A documentary showcasing the administration’s achievements in its first 100 days was also aired during the event.

  • Okpebholo: Is anyone still in doubt?

    Okpebholo: Is anyone still in doubt?

    By John Mayaki

    For those who doubted Governor Monday Okpebholo’s capacity to govern Edo State efficiently and effectively – I mean those of us who questioned his ability to unite the people, enhance security, and position the state prominently in national politics during the electioneering, it is now abundantly clear that we were mistaken. We were not just mistaken, but damn wrong. Okpebholo has defied expectations, proving that he is not the weakling some of us assumed him to be. It is time to acknowledge this reality and, perhaps, even apologize.

    The testimonies are piling up. The National Chairman of the APC and former Governor of Kano State, Abdullahi Ganduje, has acknowledged Okpebholo’s remarkable achievements. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo State and the senator representing Edo North, has openly admitted that Okpebholo accomplished in 100 days what others, including himself, could not within the same period. Even Philip Shaibu, the former deputy governor also testified to this. These endorsements are not mere political niceties – they are admissions of undeniable progress.

    Yet, if these testimonies were not enough, Okpebholo’s recent interviews on Channels Television and Television Continental (TVC) should erase any lingering doubts. Those who once viewed him as hesitant or camera-shy were in for a shock. The man who supposedly avoided the spotlight during the electioneering, commanded it with confidence, fluency, and sharp wit. He not only articulated his vision with clarity but also took well-aimed jabs at his opponents, unsettling the camp of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.

    The interviews, particularly with Seun Okinbaloye on Channels TV and Babajide Kolade-Otitoju on TVC, tells of a governor who is fully in control. He tackled every question head-on, without hesitation or evasion. This is not the sign of a leader who is weak or unprepared but the mark of a man who understands the weight of his office and the expectations upon him.

    Now, we all can see that Okpebholo is not one to grandstand or seek empty applause. He lets his work speak for itself. Pessimists and skeptics who dismissed him must now reckon with the reality of his leadership. 

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    In subsequent analyses, I will break down key takeaways from his interviews, but for now, let us reflect on the testimonies of Ganduje, Oshiomhole, and Shaibu. Their words carry weight. And if they have seen what some of us once refused to acknowledge, perhaps it is time to admit – Okpebholo is emerging as one of Nigeria’s governors to watch, alongside Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State and Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State.

    For a state to develop, it cannot be isolated. Under Obaseki, Edo State functioned like a pariah and an orphan – completely disconnected from the federal government and missing out on crucial support. However, Governor Okpebholo has changed that narrative. Edo is no longer a pariah state; it is now attracting federal assistance, a shift acknowledged even by former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu.

    Shaibu, speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily yesterday, praised Okpebholo for securing federal government support within his first 100 days in office – something he admitted was not possible under the previous administration. He said this engagement would free up state funds, allowing for more developmental projects.

    His words, “The clever thing Governor Okpebholo has done, which I applaud him for and which we didn’t do, is his ability to engage with the center and secure federal support.

    “The support coming from the federal government will free up the state’s resources for other developments. That is what he is cleverly doing, and I think it will help him drive development more quickly.”

    He is not alone. Senator Adams Oshiomhole, speaking as the guest lecturer at the event of Governor Okpebholo’s 100 days in office, praised the Governor for his remarkable achievements within his first 100 days in office, stating that Edo is truly rising under his leadership. He said Okpebholo’s administration has demonstrated practical governance with tangible results, unlike previous governments that relied on signing MoUs and hiring consultants.

    Oshiomhole admitted that Okpebholo had accomplished in 100 days what he himself could not achieve during the same period as governor. This acknowledgment alone underscores Okpebholo’s efficiency and hands-on approach to governance, positioning him as a leader focused on action rather than rhetoric.

    Besides, former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje praised Okpebholo’s impressive performance within his first 100 days in office, stating that his achievements have garnered national attention.

    Ganduje revealed that when he informed APC National Working Committee (NWC) members about Okpebholo’s 100-day celebration, they all expressed interest in attending, having followed his progress on television and heard positive reports from recent visitors to Edo State.

    He commended Okpebholo for laying a solid foundation for the state’s development, confidently predicting that his performance could easily secure him a second term (four plus four). Describing Okpebholo as a calculative leader, Ganduje noted that the governor ensures financial readiness before undertaking capital-intensive projects and maintains strict supervision to guarantee their success.

    The testimonies of these respected leaders – Senator Adams Oshiomhole, former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, and former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje – collectively dispel any doubts about Okpebholo’s competence and ability to govern efficiently and effectively.

    Initially, skeptics questioned whether Okpebholo was truly grounded and capable of delivering meaningful development in Edo State. However, the overwhelming praise from these figures, particularly Oshiomhole’s admission that Okpebholo achieved in 100 days what he himself could not, proves otherwise.

    It is clear – Okpebholo is not only grounded but has also demonstrated a results-driven approach to governance. Far from being a weak or unprepared leader, he has exceeded expectations, silenced critics, and laid a strong foundation for the future of Edo State.

  • Okpebholo expands road network in Edo central, assures quality infrastructure

    Okpebholo expands road network in Edo central, assures quality infrastructure

    Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his commitment to improving infrastructure by connecting more communities in Edo Central Senatorial District with quality roads. 

    This initiative aims to enhance residents’ daily lives and fulfill one of his key campaign promises.

    During an inspection of the ongoing 36-kilometre Utako-Unewa-Eworah-Uromi Road, Okpebholo assured residents of high-quality construction work. 

    His Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, disclosed this in a statement yesterday.

    Accompanied by top government officials, the governor was met with gratitude and prayers from community members who expressed appreciation for the long-awaited development.

    Okpebholo also inspected the progress of Anko Road and Udomi Primary School, both at advanced stages of completion.

    He emphasized that his administration is focused on delivering practical governance, ensuring that residents experience the real dividends of democracy.

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    He said: “You can see the joy on the faces of the people. We are happy that the people we are serving are happy and appreciate what we do for them, and we will do more to develop the area and other parts of Edo State.

    “We have embarked on practical governance, doing what the people will see and benefit from. We will continue practical governance. The road we are constructing here is about 36 kilometres.

    “When the road is completed, the area will be opened for economic development and growth. We want the people to feel the impact of true governance.”

    An indigene of Benue State, Larha Fanel, who is resident in the area, expressed gratitude to Okpebholo for opening the communities, through the construction of the road, while declaring that the immediate administration of Godwin Obaseki forgot the people of the area.

    Another resident, Madam Alice Ojeifoh, stated that the people of Udomi, Unewa and other communities which would benefit from the road construction were happy, noting that the road would open up the area for economic growth and development.

    Ojeifoh said: “The road was abandoned for years, but the Okpebholo administration decided to remember us.”

    The contractor, Michael Rezk, revealed that the strategic road would be connecting about eight communities, and open them up for growth and development, while disclosing that the completion time was two years.

    Rezk said: “The road is 36 kilometres, starting from the federal road in Uromi, as work has commenced on the concrete drains to collect water from the main road. 

    “You can see the progress on laterite. Soon, we will enter the stage of stone-base and asphalting. The road, when completed, will connect eight communities, and the project will be completed in two years.”

  • 100 days in office: Igbinovia salutes Okpebholo’s leadership

    100 days in office: Igbinovia salutes Okpebholo’s leadership

    Member representing Ikpoba LGA in EDSOGPADEC, Hon Felix Igbinovia, has congratulated Edo Governor Okpebholo on his 100 days in office. 

    In a statement he said, Igbinovia said this significant milestone not only reflects Governor Okpebholo’s dedication but also showcases the transformative leadership he has brought to the state.

    “It is with great admiration and heartfelt enthusiasm that I extend my warmest congratulations to you on the remarkable occasion of your first 100 days in office as the Executive Governor of Edo State. 

    “Your visionary initiatives, particularly the construction of the bridge at Ramat Park in Ikpoba Okha Local Government, are set to revolutionize our local economy. 

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    “This project will undoubtedly enhance business hubs, improve residential accessibility, and significantly reduce traffic congestion, fostering a more vibrant community for all citizens. Furthermore, your commitment to the flyover bridge across Edo State exemplifies your unwavering resolve to modernize our infrastructure and elevate the quality of life for our people.

    “In these first 100 days, you have emerged as a true superstar—a beacon of hope and progress for Edo State. Your exemplary leadership has inspired confidence and optimism among the populace, and it is clear that your policies are paving the way for a brighter future. The impact of your hard work is already being felt, and I am excited to witness the continued positive changes you will bring.

    “As you celebrate this milestone, I encourage you to maintain your focus on the goals that lies ahead. Your passion for public service and commitment to improving the lives of Edo State citizens are commendable attributes that will guide you in the years to come,” he added.

  • Alleged N96b fraud: Edo panel indicted Obaseki, impeached LG chairmen

    Alleged N96b fraud: Edo panel indicted Obaseki, impeached LG chairmen

    The administrative panel of inquiry set up by Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has indicted former Governor Godwin Obaseki and key leaders of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state over alleged N96 billion fraud involving the 18 recently impeached local government council chairmen.

    The panel, inaugurated on December 18, 2024, was tasked with investigating the financial activities of the council chairmen between September 4, 2023, and November 2024.

    Speaking on Sunday, the governor revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would prosecute some of the indicted officials for misappropriating public funds.

    While receiving the panel’s report at the Government House in Benin, the governor commended the professionalism of its members and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability in public office.

    Okpebholo said: “Nigerians need to start demanding accountability from elected public office holders. It is the only way to fight corruption and ensure development.

    “I want to thank you for a job well done. I carefully listened to the submission of the report. The truth is that the administration of former governor Godwin Obaseki took Edo people for granted. They took everything belonging to the Edo people and channelled it for their personal gains.

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    “We thank God for helping us to change the narrative to benefit the Edo people. We also thank the President of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, because, without his support, we would not be witnessing the kind of development we are experiencing in Edo State today.

    “A lot has happened. The PDP leaders looted the treasuries of the local governments in Edo and stole our collective patrimony, and nobody went after them or took action. This time, things are different. We will go after them and retrieve what they have stolen from the Edo people. They will be made to pay for it. I will personally take this document to the EFCC and ensure that justice is done for this wrong done to Edo people.”

    The Chairman of the panel, Solomon Imohiosen, while submitting its report and recommendations to Okpebholo, noted that findings and forensic investigations uncovered that a huge sum, amounting to N96 billion, was either mismanaged and/or diverted to private accounts.

    He revealed that N95 billion (N95,080,676,687.86) was received from the Joint Allocation Account Committee (JAAC) by the 18 local government council chairmen for the period investigated with the funds not judiciously utilised, as no meaningful project was on the ground to justify the funds received.

    Imohiosen also confirmed the fraudulent diversion of Edo’s local government funds to political godfathers in the state, with over N10 billion (10,433,658,452.00) fraudulently siphoned, using the pseudo name: Security, Environment and Training, while the 18 local government council chairmen contributed to the account, using it as a conduit to drain government’s resources, as funds were transferred from it to various individuals and companies.

    He noted that the panel faced different challenges during the course of the assignment, which included late submission of financial records by various local government councils, incomplete submission of records, deliberate obstruction of the investigation by council personnel who failed to comply on time, but brought hefty sacks as an after-thought to dazzle panel members.

    The chairman said: “The panel’s investigation uncovered significant irregularities in the financial activities of the 18 local government councils in Edo.

    “The recommendations outlined in the panel’s report aim to address the irregularities and promote transparency and accountability in the finances of Edo local government councils.”

    Imohiosen also stated that the report indicted a former Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Oghomwen Ugiagbe, who used his hotel, Demarriots Hotels Limited, Ahonsi Ogiegbaen Osifo, Eric Agbonmwanre, Abraham Burma and Dickson Notiemwenmwan to loot local government’s funds, which he described as unfortunate.

  • Ikhilor: Okpebholo’s square peg in a square hole

    Ikhilor: Okpebholo’s square peg in a square hole

    By John Mayaki 

    When Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo appointed Barr. Musa Ikhilor as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), three months ago, many were left wondering. His name wasn’t one that resonated loudly in Edo State’s political circles, yet he was entrusted with the engine room of the administration. Now, as the governor marks his first 100 days in office, it has become abundantly clear – Okpebholo got this appointment absolutely right.

    For those who doubted his political sagacity and relevance, his administrative capacity and know-how, Ikhilor recently proved why he is the right man for the job. He stepped forward to defend his boss and the administration, making two commanding television appearances – first on Channels Television, then on TVC. Both outings can be described as nothing short of superlative. His depth of understanding, clarity of thought, eloquence, and composure were on full display.

    I took note, particularly, when Seun Okinbaloye of Channels TV attempted to steer him off course, Ikhilor stood his ground. He exposed how Obaseki’s administration ran Edo State aground and showcased the remarkable increase in internally generated revenue under Okpebholo’s leadership. He revealed that upon assuming office, the administration was operating blindly until an asset verification team uncovered Obaseki’s can of worms. 

    He mentioned the scam that is now Radisson Blue Hotel, where government spent money on the project but Obaseki willed the shares to a company that was recently registered just a month before the expiration of the administration. It’s a must watched interview with huge revelations. 

    For the first time in a long while, Edo people saw an SSG who was not just a figurehead but a defender of the administration’s vision and policies. His commanding media presence and detailed breakdown of governance realities made Edo people proud. Unsurprisingly, his two TV appearances have since gone viral.

    When Ikhilor was first appointed, many questioned the rationale behind his selection. Now, let me say this – I am not sure he would be happy that I’m revealing this, but the truth must be told. Ikhilor was not just another political appointee; he was a key strategist, who worked behind the scenes as part of Okpebholo’s inner circle long before the election was won.

    His commitment to the project cannot be wished away just as everyone who worked for Okpebholo’s victory, and his investment in the administration’s success came at great personal cost – sacrifices I may not be at liberty to disclose.

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    What makes Ikhilor different from many before him is that he is not just occupying an office – he is making real impact. Unlike the conventional politicians who see the position of SSG as a ceremonial role, Ikhilor has approached it with the seriousness of a technocrat, with the foresight of a strategist, and the diligence of an administrator.

    A Muslim appointed by a Christian governor – to tell you how this appointment further unite our people – Ikhilor’s appointment also tells of  Okpebholo’s commitment to competence over religious or political affiliations. Ikhilor has shown himself as a seasoned legal expert, with a rich history in legislative drafting and parliamentary affairs. He built his career as a respected lawyer and became widely recognized in the National Assembly as one of the most reliable hands in the art of bill drafting and legislative processes. His expertise is a rare asset, and Edo State is already reaping the benefits.

    With the first 100 days successfully in the bag, the real work of governance begins. Ikhilor has already shown that he is not just a silent bureaucrat but an active player in shaping policy and governance. His deep knowledge of legislative processes could prove invaluable in drafting and implementing new reforms that will drive Edo’s progress.

    One thing is now clear and certain, Governor Okpebholo made the right choice, and Edo State is better for it. As the SSG continues to play his role in the administration, Edo people should expect to see more structure, more policy direction, and a more coordinated government. If his first 100 days are anything to go by, then the best is yet to come.

  • NGO hosts colloquium on Okpebholo’s 100 days in office 

    NGO hosts colloquium on Okpebholo’s 100 days in office 

    As Edo State marks 100 days under Governor Monday Okpebholo, the Coalition for Good Governance and Economic Justice in Africa is set to host a colloquium to assess and highlight his administration’s early achievements.

    The event, scheduled for Wednesday, February 19, in Abuja, will bring together key stakeholders, political analysts, and media professionals to discuss the impact of Governor Okpebholo’s policies within this short but significant period.

    With the theme: “Tracking the Achievements of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s First 100 Days in Office,” the colloquium will provide a platform for a critical and objective review of governance under the new administration.

    The event will be held under the chairmanship of Professor Abiodun Adeniyi

    Professor of Communication, Baze University, Abuja. 

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    Scheduled to take place at the Practical Governance Hall, Edo State Liaison Office, Edo House, Abuja, the gathering will serve as an interactive forum for Edo media practitioners and governance experts based in Abuja.

    As part of the program, the Coalition will also launch a special magazine, documenting Governor Okpebholo’s achievements across key sectors during his first 100 days in office.

    This initiative reflects the importance of transparency, accountability, and public engagement in governance. As the administration moves forward, such discussions will play a crucial role in shaping expectations and setting the tone for the next phase of leadership in Edo State.

  • We’re implementing Tinubu’s education blueprint in Edo-Okpebholo

    We’re implementing Tinubu’s education blueprint in Edo-Okpebholo

    Edo Governor Monday Okpebholo stated his government is implementing President Bola Tinubu’s education blueprint in the State.

    He stated his administration had embarked on massive reconstruction, renovation and remodelling of over 100 schools across the three senatorial districts of Edo.

    Okpebholo pointed out following the commitment and dedication of his administration to change the narrative in the education sector, another set of 120 schools were already earmarked for reconstruction, renovation and remodeling across the state.

    He noted the massive infrastructural development in the education sector marked the commitment of his government to ensuring that Edo children would get the best learning facilities.

    He said: “This is a demonstration of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu. You can see that massive work is ongoing across the schools in Edo State.

    “I have visited many schools this (yesterday) morning, and you can see for yourself the massive renovation, reconstruction and remodelling of the schools we have visited. What you have seen on the ground is the power of Mr. President, not my power. This is because he has mandated us to do this for our people. 

    “Edo people are happy. We will continue to do more for the benefit of our people. By the time we will be one or two years in office, Edo State and its residents would have experienced a lot of transformation across the state in the education and other sectors.

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    “This is a thing of joy coming into a school that was abandoned by the previous administration. But today, it is different, as our children can come here to learn under a very conducive and peaceful atmosphere.”

    Edo Commissioner for Education, Paddy Iyamu, stated that the infrastructural development of the state by Okpebholo was very interesting.

    He noted that working with a Governor who would say what he meant and would mean whatever he said was a plus for Edo residents, while disclosing that Okpebholo’s words were always backed by actions.

    Iyamu said: “Projects are ongoing across the three senatorial districts of Edo State. Governor Okpebholo is not a man who just makes statements, but he backs them up with actions.

    “Construction, renovation, and remodeling are ongoing across many schools in Edo State. The pupils and students are happy. Parents and people of the host communities are happy to have a leader like Governor Okpebholo, who knows the way and shows the way.

    “Every Edo child is happy knowing that a new Edo Has risen. We thank the state’s governor for his magnanimity and large heart in ensuring huge infrastructural development in the education sector in Edo.”

    The schools inspected by Okpebholo in Edo South included Eweka Primary school, Obazagbon; Oroma Primary school, Amagba; and Uyiosa Primary school, Uzebu Quarters, all in Oredo Local Government Area of Edo state.

    Others were New Era College at Ikpoba-Okha LGA of the state,  where construction of blocks of classrooms, offices, toilets, perimeter fences, security post, and boreholes, among others, were ongoing.

  • Tinubu praises Okpebholo for advancing healthcare

    Tinubu praises Okpebholo for advancing healthcare

    President Bola Tinubu has commended Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his visionary leadership in revitalizing healthcare services in the state.

    Speaking in Benin on Tuesday through the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Ishaq Salako, Tinubu lauded Okpebholo’s commitment to ensuring quality healthcare for Edo residents.

    The minister led a delegation to the Government House, Benin, to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the establishment of a National Obstetrics Fistula Centre, which will specialize in treating Vesico Vaginal Fistula (VVF) cases.

    Salako revealed that while the centre was initially established in May 2023, just before Tinubu assumed office, it lacked cooperation from the previous administration under Governor Godwin Obaseki.

    The minister said: “We struggled from May 2023 to November 2024, before you became the Governor of Edo State, but in about three months, we have achieved what we could not achieve in about 24 months.

    “All thanks to your administration. We appreciate you for your support, as we have been able to get a temporary centre to start operations in Benin City.

    “His Excellency has also given us 24-hectare land for the permanent centre. You have demonstrated that you are a political son of the President, who is prioritising healthcare at the federal level, while you are also prioritising healthcare in Edo State.

    “Fistula is a challenging problem in Nigeria, as the nation is the country with the highest burden of Fistula in the World. We have about 12,000 cases annually. Fistula is not only a medical problem, but a social and psychological problem, as some people with this condition commit suicide.

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    “The Federal Government has started a programme of free Fistula management, as the government provides social support and rehabilitation. Close to 1,700 cases have been freely supported and we hope it will continue to grow.”

    Edo governor, while also speaking, thanked President Tinubu for changing the narrative of the state, and stated that Edo residents would continue to appreciate him for all the development-oriented projects he had been initiating.

    He noted that health was very important to Edo residents, while the centre would serve not only the state, but the zone and other neighbouring states.

    Okpebholo said: “The CMD of the centre has been struggling for the past two years. This centre belongs to the Southsouth, but located in Edo, and Edo people will benefit from it.

    “I have no excuse, but to support the take-off of the centre. The hospital will commence soon, as Edo State government will support the centre.” 

    Edo governor also thanked the federal government for choosing the state for the project.

  • Obaseki left N682billion debt, says report

    Obaseki left N682billion debt, says report

    The administration of the immediate past Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki left over N682billion debt for Governor Monday Okpebholo.

     Obaseki inherited N84billion liabilities from the previous government of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole in 2016. The state’s debt profile now is 900% higher than what he inherited from Oshiomhole’s administration.

    Also, of a $75million World Bank fund for the primary education in the state under the Edo BEST programme, only $5m came directly to the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB).

    About 93% of the remaining $70million was directly managed by the Office of the Governor under an arrangement referred to as Performance for Result.

    These findings were in the report of the Edo State Assets Verification Committee , which was inaugurated on  November 26, 2024 and chaired by Dr. Afolabi Ernest Umakhike.

     Umakhike with 16 other members have submitted the committee’s final report to Governor Okpebholo.

     It alleged that Obaseki’s government had no financial discipline.

     The committe said the previous government handed over debt amounting to N682,565,164,814. 55.

    The committee observed that Obaseki’s government hurriedly embarked on a last-minute recruitment of over 4,000 teachers in November 2024.

     The committee also found out that while Edo State collected  $75million for basic education reforms, most schools in the state lacked teachers and basic infrastructure such as water, toilets. It said it discovered that no school feeding programme took place in the state.

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     The report said: “That the previous government handed over a whopping liability (debt) amounting to Six Hundred and Eighty-Two Billion, Five Hundred and Sixty-Five Million, One Hundred and Sixty-Four Thousand, Eight Hundred and Fourteen Naira, Fifty-Five Kobo only (N682, 565, 164,814. 55).

     “This is 900% higher than what he inherited from the previous government headed by Comrade Adams Oshiomhole put at N84billion in 2016.

     This is outrageous and shows a lack of financial discipline by the Obaseki-led administration.”

     On the education project, the committee stated: “On Edo BEST programme sponsored by the World Bank, the committee found out that of the $75million meant for basic education reforms and renovation of schools from the World Bank, only $5m came directly to SUBEB, the commission charged with the responsibility of implementation, while the remaining 93% of $70m was directly managed by the Governor under an arrangement referred to as Performance for Result.

     “The SUBEB staff complained that out of the $5million allocated to them only $2.5million was accessed before the project came to a close.

     “The state didn’t derive value from this project as the priority of the people of the state was how to fill the school infrastructure gap, teacher recruitment, security of pupils and hygiene, while a whopping sum of $75million was purportedly expended on procurement of tablets.”

     The committee faulted some expenditures like over N22billion on ICT for E-GOV; N967million on supervision (consultancy) for Stella Obasanjo Hospital; and the N19billion raised from the capital market for a hotel.

    It said: “On Information and Communication Technology (ICT), it was noted that the past government awarded a total of 22 contracts totalling N22billion on ICT-related activities within the last few years of the government to 18 different companies and over N17billion had been paid as at November 2024, most of these contracts were either for the deployment of E-GOV platform or data centre construction.

     “The committee frowns at non-state actors controlling the back end of the E-Gov platform while the state expends billions on consultancy services.

     Further forensic investigation has been advised.

     “The people of Edo State didn’t derive value for money from these ICT jobs and they appeared shady.

     “On Stella Obasanjo Hospital project consultancy, the erstwhile government awarded the supervision (Consultancy) of the Stella Obasanjo hospital project to a company at the original sum of N427m in December 2022, eight months later on the 2nd of August 2023, the contract was increased by N300m to N727million and 10 months later on the 3rd of July 2024 few weeks to the election the same job was increased by N200million totalling the sum of N967million – almost a billion naira for supervision of the renovation of the hospital.

     “Committee notes that this assignment is not the main construction itself or even the purchase of equipment.

    The curious part of this job is that for an amount of such magnitude, the procurement process was selective tendering method and restricted to only one company and never advertised for the general public to participate.”

    On a hotel, the committee found that while “Edo State has committed over N19billion (N2billion for land purchase and N17billion raised from the capital market) of its own funds to the construction of the hotel including purchase of the original property, the erstwhile government under Godwin Obaseki ceded away 80% of the ownership of the hotel to a strange company registered in 2024 while Edo retained 20%.

     “Available documents tendered by the Ministry of Finance showed that at the time the agreement was reached, the said company had not committed one kobo to the hotel project.

    “Assuming but not conceding that the company purportedly paid the sum of N10billion into an escrow account towards the end of that government, the ratio of ownership of the hotel will still be in the range of 70% in favour of Edo State and against 30%.”

    On Edo Investment in Edo Modular Refinery Company, the committee stated that it found that Edo State government approved and transferred the sum of N700million to a private company to assist in the establishment of the Modular Refinery in Ologbo.

    The committee said: “The company returned the money after some years to the government without converting it to equity as expected.

    The committee is curious as to what sort of partnership it is. Secondly, the money which was ordinarily sourced from EDSOPADEC has not been returned to the accounts of the commission to date; rather, it was curiously diverted elsewhere.

    The Commission pleaded with the committee to assist in retrieving their funds back to their accounts.”

    Among other findings, there were incidences of vehicle suppliers being paid 100 per cent for the supply of armoured vehicles but not supplied to the government and incidences of eloping with government vehicles. “These infractions have been recommended for criminal prosecution by relevant agencies”, the committee added.

     It also observed that there were variations of contracts from 50 per cent and above, which were a deviation from the procurement law that stipulates not more than 25 per cent for a project, which must be justified.

     “Following the discovery, the committee recommended forensic analysis and investigation on ownership of companies, enterprises, and properties in Abuja, Lagos and other locations where Edo State had prior interest before Godwin Obaseki’s tenure.

    “Other recommendations are; prosecution of indicated ex -officials, blacklisting of indicted companies and full prosecution of contractors that ran foul of the laws of the state, termination of shady contracts, MoUs and other controversial arrangements by the erstwhile Government.

    “The committee also demands a full investigation of the Edo BEST program, particularly the utilization of the $75m from the World Bank,” it said.