PDP, Okpebholo Trade Accusations Over Alleged Misuse of Funds

A political storm is brewing in Edo State as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the state government trade accusations over alleged wasteful spending and abandonment of governance. The controversy erupted following a statement by the PDP accusing Governor Monday Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, of neglecting the state for “endless foreign junkets.”

The PDP’s Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, leveled the accusations on Thursday, alleging that the governor’s administration has demonstrated “reckless dereliction of responsibility” at a time when Edo citizens are grappling with economic hardship and worsening insecurity. Mr. Nehikhare also condemned the governor’s request for the confirmation of 28 commissioner-nominees, arguing that it would create the most “bloated executive council in Edo’s history.” He further claimed that the administration has earmarked ₦4.2 billion to purchase luxury SUVs for these commissioners, with each vehicle costing an estimated ₦150 million.

“This wasteful spending spree is especially offensive at a time Edo hospitals are collapsing, schools lack teachers, roads have become death traps, and communities are left at the mercy of bandits and kidnappers,” Nehikhare’s statement read.

In a swift and sharp rebuttal, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Fred Itua, dismissed the allegations as a “product of mischief and deliberate falsehood.” Itua stated that the claims were a “desperate attempt by a failed political party to regain relevance” and insisted that Edo State has not been left without leadership. He clarified that Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa is currently in the state and actively performing his official duties.

Addressing the PDP’s claims about worker welfare, Itua highlighted that Edo State is one of the top three in Nigeria for paying the highest minimum wage, currently at ₦75,000, a fact he said exposes the opposition’s ignorance. He further accused the immediate past PDP administration of mismanaging key sectors like education, health, and infrastructure, arguing that the current challenges are a direct result of their eight-year tenure. “Edo people know where the rot came from,” Itua said, adding that the current administration is focused on building a government of capacity and competence to deliver the dividends of democracy.