Edo Governor accuses Obaseki of scam over Stella Obasanjo Hospital
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has criticized the commissioning of the Stella Obasanjo Hospital in Benin City by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, labeling it a “scam.”
Okpebholo alleged that the previous administration rushed to inaugurate the hospital as a completed project despite ongoing construction and incomplete procurement of equipment.
During an inspection of the facility on Tuesday evening, the governor, accompanied by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa and Health Commissioner Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole, promised to address the structural defects and reposition the hospital to better serve the people of Edo State.
Speaking at the site, Okpebholo said:
“After inspecting the facilities, it is clear that nothing substantial was done here by the Obaseki-led administration. They merely painted the building and installed air conditioners to create the illusion of completion. Construction was still ongoing when this project was commissioned. This is unacceptable, unfair, and a disservice to Edo people. We will meet with the contractor to address these issues and ensure the hospital is properly commissioned.”
Health Commissioner Dr. Oshiomhole expressed disappointment over the state of the project, stating that significant lapses were evident during the inspection. He said:
“This building, which was politically commissioned by the last administration, resembles an abandoned structure in certain parts. Structural defects have been identified, and we’ve notified the contractor to rectify them. A thorough review with medical experts will guide the next steps to ensure the facility meets the required standards.”
Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that public projects meet high-quality standards and genuinely serve the needs of Edo residents. Further discussions with contractors and consultants are expected to determine the way forward for the hospital’s completion and proper commissioning.
