Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has alleged that the All Progressives Congress (APC) borrowed between N2 billion and N5 billion to finance the November 12 inauguration of Governor-elect Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Obaseki expressed his concerns during the inauguration of the caretaker committee for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Benin.
Obaseki noted that, as the outgoing governor, his administration was neither consulted nor invited to participate in the ceremony planning. He also alleged that the incoming APC administration was already tapping into state resources, stating, “We have almost N27 billion set aside for ongoing projects and obligations, yet they’re borrowing billions for an inauguration. This is the first money they’ll take from the treasury.”
He further accused the APC of using the inauguration period to sway public opinion, saying, “They’re going to spend as much as possible to change perceptions. It’s as if they’re starting a brand new government and a brand new state without involving the outgoing administration.”
Obaseki reassured his party members that he would remain committed to the PDP and continue advocating for what he termed a “stolen mandate.” He stated, “We must reclaim our mandate for the sake of Nigeria. Allowing the APC to keep it could spell the end of democracy in our country.”
In response, Prince Kassim Afegbua, a member of the APC’s transition committee, dismissed Obaseki’s claims. Afegbua challenged the outgoing governor’s stance, saying, “Is it not the duty of the current administration to organize the inauguration for the incoming government? Why would they shy away from their responsibility and then criticize us?”
Afegbua added that while the outgoing government appeared reluctant, the APC was pressing forward, remarking, “If they’re not forthcoming, that doesn’t mean we haven’t extended an invitation.”
