Edo State Governor-Elect, Monday Okpebholo, on Wednesday, called on financial institutions to stop granting loans to the state government during the ongoing transition period.
He raised concerns about alleged looting of government funds and properties by officials of the outgoing administration led by Governor Godwin Obaseki.
In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Media, Godswill Inegbealso, Okpebholo called for an investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) into these allegations.
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On Tuesday, the All Progressives Congress (APC) formed a 24-member transition committee led by former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu to meet with the state government’s team ahead of the November 12 handover.
The statement expressed shock at reports of looting from the Government House in Benin City and the alleged acquisition of new loans by the outgoing administration under questionable circumstances.
Okpebholo condemned the looting of vehicles, furniture, gadgets, and other government properties.
He urged the EFCC, police, and DSS to investigate and hold those responsible accountable, while warning financial institutions against engaging in further loan transactions with the government during this period.
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Okpebholo emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for corruption and unethical behavior.
The Edo State Commissioner for Orientation and Information, Chris Nehikhare, stated he would respond to these allegations on Thursday.
Meanwhile, the Edo State government, through a statement by Special Adviser on Media Projects Crusoe Osagie, criticized Okpebholo’s team, describing the claims as baseless and accusing them of attempting to create the impression of two governors in the state.
The government called for patience until the handover date of November 12, 2024.
