Tensions are escalating in Edo State as the incoming Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, raised alarm over the whereabouts of outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki. According to Okpebholo’s team, Obaseki has been unaccounted for since Friday, prompting concerns about his sudden absence just days before the official handover of power. This development follows accusations from Obaseki that he was excluded from Okpebholo’s inauguration, setting the stage for a contentious transition period.
In a statement released on Sunday, Okpebholo’s spokesperson, Godspower Inegbe, detailed the situation, alleging that Obaseki had disappeared from the Government House in Benin City without notifying any officials. “Obaseki left the Government House and disappeared without notifying any official, abandoning governance just days before his term ends,” the statement reads. It also claims that Obaseki dismissed government staff before leaving the city in an unmarked vehicle, which was reportedly seen heading out of Benin City by road.
The Governor-elect expressed concern over Obaseki’s conduct during this crucial period, suggesting that the outgoing governor’s disappearance was part of a broader attempt to derail the transition process. “Obaseki’s recent comments are an attempt to distract the public from this abrupt departure,” Inegbe’s statement continued, accusing Obaseki of resorting to “false narratives” to create confusion in the transition.
Governor Obaseki, who is nearing the end of his second term, had previously accused Okpebholo of not inviting him to the inauguration scheduled for Tuesday. In a statement of his own, Obaseki claimed that Okpebholo’s victory was illegitimate and that he had been excluded from the ceremonial handover. Okpebholo’s team swiftly rebutted these allegations, asserting that Obaseki had failed to extend any formal invitation for a transition meeting or to tour the Government House. “The inauguration was planned according to the legal and procedural requirements, and we have not received any official communication from Governor Obaseki regarding any transition meeting,” Okpebholo’s camp stated.
The Governor-elect’s team further asserted that Obaseki’s repeated accusations were part of an ongoing effort to disrupt the peaceful handover of power. “Obaseki’s statements are nothing more than a distraction. Okpebholo’s victory in the September 21 election was legitimate and validated by the people of Edo State, and it will soon be confirmed by the tribunal,” the statement reads.
Amid these escalating tensions, Okpebholo’s team has also condemned Obaseki’s actions in relation to the ongoing election tribunal. They suggested that the outgoing governor was attempting to influence the tribunal’s proceedings by discrediting Okpebholo’s victory. “These unfounded accusations are a desperate attempt to sway the tribunal’s outcome,” Inegbe stated. “Governor Obaseki will soon lose his immunity, and we are prepared to take legal action if these baseless claims continue.”
As the handover date approaches, the political climate in Edo State remains charged with uncertainty. Okpebholo’s camp has urged the people of Edo to rally behind the incoming administration and assured residents that the new government is committed to restoring order and addressing the issues facing the state. “After years of mismanagement, we will work tirelessly to bring Edo back on track,” Inegbe affirmed, signaling that the Governor-elect is prepared to swiftly address the state’s pressing concerns.
