Flooding in Benin City, the capital of Edo State in Nigeria, has sparked a heated exchange between the state’s governor, Monday Okpebholo, and the local chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The recent downpour, which occurred on Tuesday, left parts of the state underwater, with houses submerged and major roads impassable for several hours.
The governor’s office, through his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, has questioned the use of $150 million allegedly spent on flood control by former governor Godwin Obaseki. This inquiry has been met with sharp criticism from the PDP, who view it as an attempt to shift blame for the current administration’s perceived ineptitude. According to the PDP, it is unfortunate that the All Progressives Congress (APC) government, nearing its first year in office, would resort to calling on its predecessor for solutions to its problems.
Edo PDP Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, released a statement condemning Governor Okpebholo’s response to the flooding, describing it as an excuse for the state’s lack of preparedness and governance. Nehikhare alleged that the governor’s claim of mismanaged funds for erosion control under Obaseki’s government was a mere fabrication. The exchange highlights the ongoing political tensions in Edo State, as the government and opposition parties spar over accountability and competence in addressing the region’s pressing issues, including its yearly struggles with flooding.
The situation in Benin City serves as a reminder of the need for effective governance and infrastructure planning in the face of natural disasters. As the people of Edo State cope with the aftermath of the flooding, the debate between the government and the PDP is likely to continue, with each side seeking to assign blame and claim the moral high ground. The international community will be watching closely, as this incident underscores the broader challenges of climate resilience, urban planning, and political accountability in Nigeria and beyond.
