Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has launched an investigation into the $10 million reportedly spent by the previous administration of Godwin Obaseki to revitalize the state-owned newspaper, The Nigerian Observer. The announcement followed an unannounced visit by Governor Okpebholo and top officials to the newspaper’s premises in Benin City on Tuesday.
The Governor expressed his disappointment at the state of the facilities, noting that the newspaper, which had been shut down for renovations under the previous administration, appeared to have deteriorated further rather than improved to compete with national publications. He voiced frustration at being unable to fully access the premises during his visit and pledged to return for a more comprehensive inspection of the buildings and equipment allegedly purchased with public funds.
“I visited The Observer newspaper company to verify the claims of $10 million spent by Obaseki to revamp the media outfit,” Governor Okpebholo stated. “The premises were locked, and no machines or staff were visible. If there had been equipment, people would be working there, especially given the resources spent.”
The Governor emphasized his commitment to ensuring accountability and transparency regarding the use of state funds, stating that Edo citizens deserved answers about the alleged misallocation of resources.
However, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehikhare, responded to the Governor’s announcement with a statement urging Okpebholo to consult with his own officials regarding the matter. Nehikhare pointed specifically to the Information Commissioner, Chief Press Secretary, and others, suggesting they could provide details about the equipment that was taken into custody on February 7th from The Observer premises.
“The most laughable part is Okpebholo’s claims that he could not access his own property during a visit to the Observer,” Nehikhare stated, expressing astonishment at the Governor’s declared intent to probe the prior administration’s efforts concerning the newspaper.
Nehikhare also highlighted the Governor’s prior actions regarding the newspaper. “On November 18, 2024, days after assuming office, Okpebholo ordered the sack of all civil servants at the Nigerian Observer,” he said.
The PDP Publicity Secretary directed the public to a Daily Post article from November 19, 2024, titled “Edo: Gov Okpebholo sacks Observer workers,” and The Sun Nigeria’s story, “EDSG takes over full control of Observer Printing Press,” published on February 7, 2025, for further information. Nehikhare also referenced a video of an equipment tour aired by TMC TV, said to show the machinery at The Observer premises.
He urged the Information Commissioner, Press Secretary, Observer’s General Manager, and Permanent Secretary to brief the Governor on the equipment they took custody of during the inspection.
Nehikhare further criticized the Governor’s actions, stating, “It is absurd to order the sack of employees in November 2024 while still expecting them to be present during his visit.”
