Politics
Gov Obaseki’s Whereabouts Unknown, Edo’s Incoming Leader Okpebholo Alleges
Tensions are running high in Edo State as Governor-Elect Senator Monday Okpebholo alleges that outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki has disappeared from the public eye and is unresponsive just days before the state’s leadership transition.
In a statement released on Sunday, Okpebholo’s spokesperson, Godspower Inegbe, claimed Obaseki had fled Benin City on Friday under unclear circumstances, with no communication or public appearance since.
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The statement alleges that Obaseki, who reportedly left the Edo Government House in an unmarked bus, dismissed staff from the premises before departing, and has since been unreachable.
“As of Friday, 8th November, Obaseki’s whereabouts remain unknown,” the statement read, accusing the governor of abandoning his responsibilities as he approaches the end of his term.
These developments follow Obaseki’s own statement on Saturday, in which he criticized Okpebholo for allegedly excluding him from the upcoming inauguration ceremony scheduled for next Tuesday.
Obaseki further questioned the legitimacy of Okpebholo’s electoral victory, claiming the mandate was “stolen.”
Okpebholo rebuffed these allegations in his Sunday response, describing them as “reckless” and asserting that Obaseki is attempting to deflect from his absence and disrupt a smooth transfer of power.
Okpebholo also expressed concerns about Obaseki’s recent actions, describing them as efforts to hinder a peaceful transition.
“Since winning the election, Obaseki has employed every means to frustrate the handover process,” Okpebholo’s statement read.
He claimed Obaseki had not extended any invitation for a formal meeting or tour of Government House, nor offered any congratulations.
The Governor-Elect further criticized Obaseki’s claims about his mandate, accusing him of trying to sway public opinion amid the ongoing tribunal case filed by the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), which is contesting Okpebholo’s September 21 electoral victory.
He expressed confidence that the tribunal will uphold his win and accused Obaseki of creating a “false narrative” to influence the proceedings.
Okpebholo warned that continued allegations from Obaseki may result in legal consequences once his immunity expires.
“Obaseki will soon face the full force of the law if he persists with these baseless claims,” Okpebholo stated, urging Edo residents to dismiss Obaseki’s comments and stand with the incoming administration as it seeks to “correct the wrongs of the outgoing government.”
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced a sweeping dissolution of executives across all state boards of government agencies and parastatals.
In a statement released by Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor confirmed that the affected officials are to vacate their positions immediately.
The decision, which was made public on Wednesday, also impacts Permanent Secretaries who were appointed from outside the Edo State Public/Civil Service, as well as political appointees across various government departments.
Governor Okpebholo directed that all outgoing officials hand over government property in their possession to the highest-ranking public officer within their respective agencies or departments.
“It is hereby announced for the information of the general public that the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the dissolution of executives of all boards, agencies, and parastatals in Edo State Public Service with immediate effect,” the statement read.
Senator Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa were formally sworn in on Tuesday as the Governor and Deputy Governor of Edo State, respectively.
The inauguration ceremony took place at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, where Chief Justice Daniel Okungbowa administered the oath of office to the new leaders.
During the ceremony, both officials pledged to uphold the constitution and dedicate themselves to the welfare of Edo State’s citizens. Supporters gathered at the stadium cheered as the oath-taking ceremony proceeded, marking the beginning of a new administration in the state.
Further details are expected as the new government outlines its agenda for the state.
Monday Okpebholo has officially taken office as the new governor of Edo State, succeeding Godwin Obaseki and ushering in a new era of leadership.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Tuesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, marked a significant moment for the state as it transitions to an All Progressives Congress (APC)-led administration.
READ ALSO: Gov Obaseki’s Whereabouts Unknown, Edo’s Incoming Leader Okpebholo Alleges
The event took place just two months after the APC secured a victory in the state’s gubernatorial election, paving the way for Okpebholo’s term at the Dennis Osadebay House.
Alongside him, Dennis Idahosa, his running mate, was also sworn in as Deputy Governor.
In his inaugural address, Okpebholo expressed gratitude to the people of Edo State for their support and outlined key priorities for his administration, including economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved social services.
More to follow………...
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