The Edo State Government has advised Governor-elect Senator Monday Okpebholo and his aides to focus on preparing for their alleged N5 billion inauguration ceremony rather than involving Governor Godwin Obaseki in “petty political antics.”
In a statement released by Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser to Governor Obaseki on Media, Osagie expressed disappointment over what he described as the incoming administration’s misplaced priorities. He criticized the expenditure on the November 12 inauguration, suggesting that it reflected a return to an era of “unrestrained spending and extravagant events” in Edo State.
Osagie remarked, “It is concerning that Edo is reverting to a period where lavish parties and excessive spending define government operations. The governor-elect has chosen to sideline Governor Obaseki from the inauguration ceremony, a move that underscores the degree of pettiness driving this new administration.”
He alleged that Okpebholo’s team had committed Edo State to a staggering N5 billion in expenses for the inauguration alone, with additional costs expected to arise on the event day. “This November 12, Edo people may witness a painful reversal from the fiscal responsibility and economic prudence that have previously characterized governance in the state,” Osagie said.
Additionally, Osagie accused the incoming administration of unfairly criticizing the outgoing government’s professional approach to the handover process, contrasting it with past practices that involved “vandalism of government properties.”
He continued, “We’ve ensured a respectful handover, yet the incoming government seems displeased as they were anticipating an opportunity to engage in destructive practices while blaming our administration.”
