The Governor -elect of Edo State, Sen Monday Okpebholo late Wednesday raised the alarm over alleged looting of government fund and properties by officials of the outing administration of the Governor Godwin Obaseki’s led Government.
This is barely 48 hours after the All Progressives Congress (APC), in response to a demand from Obaseki’s Secretary to State Government (SSG), Joseph Eboigbe set up a 24 members transition committee led by former Deputy Governor Pius Odubu to meet with the state government committee ahead of handing over preparation slated for November 12, 2024.
All efforts to reach the state government for reaction on the allegation of thiefry proved abortive as the two mobile phone numbers of the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare and that of the Special Adviser to Governor Obaseki on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie were switched off.
Okpebolo in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media, Godswill Inegbe also called on the Economic and Financial Crime Commission, (EFCC) and the Department of State Security, (DSS) to carry out a thorough investigation into matter and called on financial institutions in the state to desist from dealing or giving any loans to the state government during the period of the transition.
The statement reads, “With a great shock, we regret the widespread reports of looting of government funds and properties by officials of the outgoing administration from the Government House, Benin City.
“It is sad that barely one month to hand over, the outgoing administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki is still allegedly obtaining loans from banks and other financial institutions under very shady headings.
“We are also aware of the massive looting and vandalization of properties, including vehicles, furniture, gadgets, household utensils, and even carpets from offices and residences of the Edo state Government.
“This unacceptable behavior undermines the trust and faith of our citizens in those entrusted to serve them in the past 7 years.
“In the light of the forgoing, we call on the relevant authorities including the EFCC, Police and DSS to investigate the allegations thoroughly and ensure that those found guilty are held accountable while protecting Government House and offices from vandals.
“Banks and other financial institutions are, by this notice, cautioned to desist from any dealings that will undermine the finances of the state, especially giving out of loans to Edo state government at this period of transition.
“The Accountant General of Edo state is hereby advised to uphold the principle of integrity in his duty as the only act that will put his name in gold.
We want to state unequivocally that there will be dire consequences for any act of impunity and stealing on any person or institution found wanting in this regard. 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 behaviours as he stresses zero-tolerance for corruption.
