Edo State Governor-Elect Monday Okpebholo has sounded the alarm over the 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 on banks to halt the granting of loans to the state government during the transition period and urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the matter.

The allegations come as the All Progressives Congress (APC) set up a 24-member transition committee, led by former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu, to meet with the state government committee ahead of the handover on November 12. Okpebholo expressed his shock and disappointment over the reported widespread looting of government funds and properties, including vehicles, furniture, and household utensils.

Okpebholo warned that his administration would not tolerate any form of corruption or impunity, stating that there would be dire consequences for any person or institution found guilty. “We will continue to monitor the situation until the last day of the outgoing administration. Senator Monday Okpebholo will not condone any form of unethical behaviour, as he stresses a zero-tolerance policy for corruption,” the statement read.

In response, the outgoing administration accused Okpebholo’s associates of making spurious allegations and claims aimed at creating the impression that there are two governors in Edo State. The Special Adviser on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, described the statement from Okpebholo’s media assistant as “spurious” and “riddled with fake news.”

Osagie advised Okpebholo’s team to wait until November 12 to commence governance, stating that there cannot be two governors of Edo State at the same time. However, Okpebholo’s team remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition and holding accountable those responsible for the alleged looting and corruption.

As the transition period unfolds, the people of Edo State and beyond will be watching closely to see how the situation develops and whether Okpebholo’s administration can deliver on its promise of zero-tolerance for corruption.