Okpebholo Strikes! New Edo Governor To Launch Full-Scale Probe Into Obaseki’s Regime

Obaseki, who served as governor from 2016 to 2024 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was succeeded after the All Progressives Congress (APC) clinched victory in the last election.

Speaking during a victory parade on Friday at the Government House in Benin City, attended by party leaders, civil servants, youths, market women, and professional groups, Governor Okpebholo announced plans to set up a Commission of Inquiry to scrutinize the activities and financial records of the Obaseki-led government.

“I intend to review the financial transactions and governance of the past eight years. For instance, a university in the state received just N47 million, while a consultant was paid N51 million under Obaseki. That’s unacceptable. They planned to continue this trend, but by God’s grace, we stopped them,” he said.

Okpebholo emphasized that he has not dismissed any civil servants since assuming office, retaining the Head of Service and several Permanent Secretaries from the previous administration.

He also revealed that former officials of the Obaseki government would be questioned over their stewardship, particularly highlighting that PDP’s former governorship candidate, Asue Ighodalo, allegedly earmarked funds for the election and subsequent legal battles.

Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, while celebrating the recent Supreme Court verdict that affirmed their election, praised Governor Okpebholo’s efforts during the legal process and urged the administration to now focus on delivering for Edo citizens.

Former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu also congratulated Okpebholo, noting that Edo people will eventually appreciate their decision in electing him.