Senator Adams Oshiomhole, representing Edo North and former governor of Edo State, has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo to launch an investigation into the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki.
His remarks followed Thursday’s Supreme Court ruling, which upheld Okpebholo’s election as governor. A five-member panel, led by Justice Lawal Garba, dismissed the appeal filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Asue Ighodalo, citing failure to substantiate claims of over-voting, electoral malpractice, and violations of the Electoral Act. The court unanimously affirmed that Ighodalo did not win the majority of lawful votes.
Speaking during a celebration of the verdict, Oshiomhole stated that with the legal distractions behind him, Governor Okpebholo now has the opportunity to probe alleged financial mismanagement under Obaseki.
“Now that the Supreme Court has spoken, Your Excellency can investigate that hotel project where Edo state funds, running into tens of billions of dollars, were allegedly diverted,” Oshiomhole said.
He also criticized the quality of infrastructure executed under Obaseki, saying many roads built during the previous administration have failed, unlike those constructed during his own tenure which “are still standing.”
“Obaseki must come out from hiding and answer questions. We came to rescue Edo, and part of that rescue mission involves accountability,” Oshiomhole stated.
He challenged Obaseki to return to the state and face public scrutiny: “Let us walk the streets of Benin as former governors. Let the people judge who truly impacted their lives.”
Oshiomhole concluded by expressing confidence in Governor Okpebholo’s capacity to lead, praying for divine wisdom and strength to sustain progress in Edo State.
