Edo: Governor Okpebholo sets up committee to probe Obaseki administration

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has established a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki.

The announcement was made through a statement by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, in Benin City on Sunday.

The committee, which will be inaugurated on Tuesday, November 26, is chaired by Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, with Anslem Ojezua as Deputy Chairman and Frank Edebor as Secretary. Other members include Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, Taiwo Akerele, Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie, Fredrick Unopah, Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.

The formation of the committee is aimed at fostering transparency and accountability in governance while laying a foundation for Edo State’s development. The statement highlighted concerns about the limited disclosure of the state’s assets and liabilities by the previous administration.

“Despite repeated calls for a more holistic database of the Assets and Liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led government came up with very scanty and limited assets and liabilities of the state,” the statement read.

Governor Okpebholo emphasized his commitment to probity, transparency, and accountable leadership as part of his administration’s campaign promises.

This move signifies a step toward ensuring responsible governance and providing a comprehensive understanding of the state’s financial and material standing.