Edo Governor-elect Okpebholo accuses Obaseki of sabotaging transition process
The governor-elect of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, has accused outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki of obstructing a peaceful transfer of power, as Obaseki’s term ends on November 12, 2024.
Tensions between the two surfaced after Obaseki alleged on Friday that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is arranging the inauguration of Okpebholo without any coordination with the state government.
Obaseki claimed that he had not been invited to the swearing-in ceremony.
In response, Godspower Inegbe, Okpebholo’s media aide, criticized Obaseki for allegedly using “every tool” to complicate the handover.
Inegbe claimed that Obaseki has neither offered congratulations to the governor-elect nor facilitated an introductory tour of the government house, actions seen as customary in transition periods.
The dispute has raised concerns over the smoothness of the upcoming handover, as Okpebholo prepares to assume leadership of Edo State amid political friction.
“Again, Obaseki also claimed that Senator Okpebholo did not invite him to the inauguration slated for next Tuesday. This is laughable, absurd, and questionable,” the statement reads.
“Since Okpebholo was declared the winner, Obaseki has employed every means to frustrate a peaceful transfer of power.
“As a sitting governor, Obaseki should tell Edo people and Nigerians if he has ever invited the governor-elect to Government House for a meeting or a tour as a responsible man.
“Has Obaseki called Senator Okpebholo to congratulate him since he won the election?
“We urge Edo people to disregard Obaseki’s reckless statements and support the incoming administration of Senator Okpebholo to remedy the many wrongs of this government.”
Obaseki had expressed concerns regarding the intentions of the anti-graft agency, claiming that it plans to arrest him immediately after he relinquishes his power.
In the recent governorship election held on September 21, Asue Ighodalo, representing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), emerged as Obaseki’s preferred candidate.
Following the election results, Ighodalo has made a commitment to contest the outcome in court.
