Video: Wike urges Okpebholo to halt probe of his predecessor

Abdullateef Fowewe

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has pleaded with Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo to stop the ongoing probe into the administration of his predecessor, former Governor Godwin Obaseki.

Video link: https://x.com/DailyEconews/status/1944712300050436441?t=J7Xm7b039HqGweq_6McjAA&s=19

Governor Okpebholo had earlier vowed to investigate Obaseki’s eight-year tenure, accusing the former administration of financial impropriety, including allegations of looting through consultants and questionable contracts.

Okpebholo announced plans to set up a Commission of Inquiry to scrutinize Obaseki’s records, promising Edo people that the probe would expose those who “cheated Edo people in the last eight years” and ensure accountability.

However, Wike, who had previously congratulated Okpebholo on his electoral victory and expressed confidence in his leadership, has now urged the governor to focus on governance rather than being distracted by political vendettas.

Wike emphasised, “This victory is for the people of Edo State, who elected Governor Okpebholo. It is a call for greater commitment to the service of the people. I urge the governor to keep doing his best for the upliftment of Edo State and its people.”

He further appealed for unity, urging political opponents to join hands for the development of Edo State now that the electoral dispute has been conclusively settled by the Supreme Court.

He further noted that, “I should even be the to beg to probe this man (Obaseki).”

Wike’s call comes amid strong pressure from Okpebholo and his allies, including former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, who have publicly supported the probe.

Oshiomhole described the probe as necessary to recover state funds allegedly lost under Obaseki’s administration.