By 9jaeye 
In a recent development that has stirred controversy, outgoing Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) borrowed as much as N5 billion to finance the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Governor-elect. With the inauguration scheduled for November 12, 2024, these claims have intensified the political tension in Edo State. Obaseki made this statement while inaugurating a new 10-man caretaker committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Benin City.
Although Obaseki has maintained that his administration left substantial funds for projects and state obligations, he expressed frustration over APC’s financial actions. “We have almost N27 billion set aside for projects and state responsibilities,” Obaseki stated. However, he quickly added that “they have started spending it and even went further to borrow between N2 billion and N5 billion for an inauguration.”
This claim didn’t go unanswered. In a quick response, Prince Kassim Afegbua, a member of APC’s transition team, dismissed Obaseki’s statement as unfounded. He questioned why the outgoing government would not be in charge of the inauguration itself, asserting, “Is it not an outgoing government’s responsibility to organize the incoming administration’s inauguration?” According to Afegbua, Obaseki’s accusations lack a solid foundation.
Meanwhile, the situation grows more intense. Obaseki also raised concern about his lack of invitation to the inauguration ceremony, viewing this as a disregard for protocol. “They are doing an inauguration, yet the Governor himself is not even invited,” Obaseki noted. For him, this act feels like the APC is “starting a brand new government and a brand new State.”
Governor Obaseki Concern for a Smooth Transition
These allegations have raised questions about the intended continuity in Edo State’s governance. Obaseki believes that respecting state finances and protocol will be crucial for a stable transition. Furthermore, he has urged the APC to exercise caution in handling public funds, emphasizing that responsibility in financial decisions is vital for Edo’s future.
Will Okpebholo’s Inauguration Cause Further Tensions?
As the date approaches, many in Edo State wonder if the inauguration will proceed without further issues. Whether Obaseki’s claims hold weight or not, citizens hope that this transition will ultimately reflect stability and uphold the values of democracy. The outcome of this inauguration will likely shape public perception of the incoming administration’s commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility.
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