The Edo State Government has taken aim at Governor-elect Sen. Monday Okpebholo, urging him and his team to focus on their upcoming inauguration, rather than targeting outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki in what it calls “political pettiness.”
In a statement issued on Sunday, Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser on Media Projects to Governor Obaseki, criticized the incoming administration’s plans for an estimated N5 billion swearing-in ceremony scheduled for November 12. He described the expenditure as “unconscionable” and out of step with the state’s needs.
“It is telling that we are returning to an era of lavish spending and parties as a priority for Edo State,” Osagie stated. He expressed disappointment that Obaseki, who served two terms, had not been invited to the inauguration, calling the decision “petty” and suggesting it sets a troubling precedent for the new administration’s tone.
The adviser pointed out that the outgoing government had aimed for a smooth transition, taking care to safeguard state resources and assets. In contrast, he accused Okpebholo’s team of focusing on an excessive inauguration budget rather than hitting the ground running on policy.
According to Osagie, the incoming administration has committed to extensive contracts for the event, with the N5 billion figure representing only the publicly confirmed portion. “It would indeed be a sad day for Edo people who have, until now, benefited from prudent financial management,” he added.
