The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Governor Monday Okpebholo of dismantling development structures established by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. The party criticized Okpebholo for abandoning existing security and education policies rather than building upon them.
At a press conference, PDP State Publicity Secretary Dan Osa-Ogbegie stated that it is concerning for Okpebholo to discard the security architecture and educational frameworks that were effective under Obaseki. He emphasized the importance of continuity in government, arguing that effective governance should involve improving upon inherited systems.
Osa-Ogbegie highlighted the international recognition of the EdoBEST educational program, which was praised by organizations such as the World Bank and UNESCO. He questioned why Okpebholo would choose to dismantle such successful initiatives.
In response to rumors about Obaseki being on the run, Osa-Ogbegie’s predecessor, Chris Nehikhare, clarified that Obaseki is currently in the UK for a fellowship and is willing to cooperate with any inquiries from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Nehikhare dismissed claims that Obaseki did nothing during his tenure, citing the construction of 1,300 kilometers of roads and the establishment of various institutions across the state.
He asserted that Obaseki is a free man who has completed his term and is allowing the current administration space to operate. Nehikhare referred to the ongoing issues with Okpebholo as stemming from what he termed the “Obaseki Derailment Syndrome.”
