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.
READ ALSO: Obasanjo Calls For Neutrality, Declares Himself A ‘No-Party Statesman’
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.”
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………...
Former President Olusegun Obasanjo paid a visit to Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Monday, extending his best wishes for the governor’s upcoming election bid.
Aiyedatiwa, who is the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, received Obasanjo at the state government house’s presidential lodge, where the former president reflected on his own experiences with election campaigns, recalling the challenges he faced during his 1999 campaign.
Obasanjo shared, “I understand the challenges of this period for you. I remember my campaign for the 1999 election when I covered the entire six states of the South West in one day. I think we started in Akure, Ondo State, then moved to Ekiti and reached Lagos around 8 pm. This is a crucial part of the process, and I wish you all the best.”
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed appreciation for the former president’s visit, acknowledging his contributions to Nigeria’s development and praising Obasanjo’s humility and humanity.
Meanwhile, Senator Jimoh Ibrahim, representing Ondo South Senatorial District, has pledged full support for the APC’s victory in the upcoming governorship election. Addressing his supporters, the Aseyori Group, on Sunday, Ibrahim urged them to mobilize voters for Aiyedatiwa, aiming for a decisive win to secure the governor’s term beyond 2025.
Aiyedatiwa, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, encouraged voters to ensure their participation. “Please tell your friends, families, and neighbours about the good work we have started… the APC will win this election, but we must win resoundingly,” he urged.
The Ondo governorship election is scheduled for November 16, with the APC aiming to maintain its stronghold in the state.
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