Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced plans to investigate the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, vowing to uncover financial mismanagement during a state broadcast on July 11, 2025.
The probe, to be conducted by a yet-to-be-constituted panel, will focus on the ₦700 billion budget executed between 2016 and 2024, with allegations of inflated contracts and unexecuted projects. Okpebholo, who assumed office in November 2024 after a Supreme Court affirmation, cited public demands for accountability as his motivation.
Obaseki’s tenure saw infrastructure gains, including the Benin City Stormwater project, but critics, including APC leaders, allege ₦200 billion in loans remain unexplained. The governor promised transparency, targeting sectors like education and health, though Obaseki’s camp has dismissed the probe as political vendetta, noting his party’s 2024 loss.
Legal experts warn of potential litigation, while civil society groups demand an independent inquiry. The panel’s formation is expected within two weeks, with findings due by year-end, amid heightened political tension.