Okpebholo promises Commission of Inquiry after citing questionable consultant payments
Benin City, Edo State – Governor Monday Okpebholo delivered a bold promise to investigate his predecessor during a packed victory parade at Government House this week. The new governor announced plans to examine Godwin Obaseki’s financial decisions during eight years of PDP rule, citing specific payment discrepancies that raised red flags.
Standing before party leaders, civil servants, and cheering supporters, Okpebholo made clear his administration would prioritize transparency over political courtesy.
Opening the Books
Okpebholo wasted no time addressing financial concerns from the previous administration. Speaking directly to the crowd, he promised to examine every major decision made between 2016 and 2024.
“I will open the books to check the financial dealings and how Obaseki governed Edo State in the last eight years,” the governor declared to loud applause from supporters.
The most striking example he shared involved a stark payment imbalance that caught his attention during the transition period. A university in Edo State received N47 million in funding, while a consultant walking away with N51 million for unspecified services.
“A university in this State received N47 million under Obaseki’s administration, while he paid a consultant N51 million. This was not good enough,” Okpebholo said, his voice rising with conviction. The crowd’s reaction suggested many shared his concerns about these Edo State financial records.
Commission of Inquiry Takes Shape
The governor’s investigation will not be a casual review. A formal Commission of Inquiry will soon begin examining contracts, payments, and governance decisions that shaped Edo State during Obaseki’s tenure.
This commission will have the power to summon former officials and demand explanations for their actions. The governor made clear that accountability would be comprehensive, not selective.
Despite the serious investigation ahead, Okpebholo emphasized continuity in daily government operations. “Since I came into the office, I have not sacked anybody but rather continued with the civil servants I met in the office,” he explained.
The Head of Service who worked under Obaseki remains in position, along with numerous Permanent Secretaries. This approach sends a message that the probe targets policy decisions and financial management, not civil servants doing their jobs.
The N51 Million Question
The consultant payment that Okpebholo highlighted represents more than just numbers on a spreadsheet. It reflects broader questions about spending priorities during the previous administration.
While universities struggled with limited funding, consultants apparently received larger sums for unclear services. This pattern will likely become a central focus of the upcoming investigation.
The governor’s supporters saw this example as validation of their election choice. “They wanted to continue with this act, but God helped us to push them out,” Okpebholo said, drawing enthusiastic cheers from the crowd.
The investigation will examine whether similar payment patterns existed across other government departments and projects during Obaseki’s eight-year tenure.
Strong Political Backing
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa stood firmly behind the accountability measures during the victory celebration. His endorsement carries weight as someone who will help implement the investigation.
“It is now time to be focused and work for the Edo people,” Idahosa told the gathering, emphasizing that the probe serves public interest rather than political revenge.
The deputy governor also celebrated the Supreme Court ruling that confirmed their election victory. This legal validation provides solid ground for pursuing the promised investigation without questions about legitimacy.
Former Deputy Governor Comrade Philip Shaibu added his voice to the chorus of support. His presence at the event signals broad political backing for Okpebholo’s transparency agenda.
“It is the time to work as Edo people will be grateful for voting for Senator Monday Okpebholo as their governor,” Shaibu declared, linking the investigation to campaign promises made to voters.
What Comes Next
The Commission of Inquiry represents just the beginning of Okpebholo’s promised transparency measures. Edo residents will be watching closely to see whether the investigation produces meaningful results or becomes another political exercise.
The governor’s decision to retain civil servants while investigating political decisions suggests a measured approach. This strategy could help maintain government efficiency while pursuing accountability.
For Obaseki and his former administration, the probe means potential scrutiny of decisions they likely considered routine government business. The investigation’s scope and timeline will determine how deep this examination goes.
By Kayode Ojo
