The Edo Assets Verification Committee has urged the state government to reassess contracts awarded during the tenure of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, citing concerns over potential fraud and corruption. This call was made during the presentation of the committee’s final report to Governor Monday Okpebholo in Benin City on Wednesday.
Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the committee’s chairman, emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into specific corporate entities and holdings within the state to clarify their true ownership and affiliations.
“Particularly, entities and holdings that have generated suspicion due to the perceived role of Edo State Government in their establishment and formative years, require urgent scrutiny,” he stated.
The report highlighted significant financial obligations left by the previous administration, which could pose a serious threat to the state’s fiscal stability.
“It is with great responsibility that I present this final report today, marking the conclusion of the Edo State Assets Verification Committee’s assignment,” Umakhihe remarked.
He added that the report encompasses a detailed assessment of government assets, contractual commitments, and a thorough analysis of liabilities accrued over time.
Moreover, the committee identified several instances where government resources were mismanaged or improperly allocated, raising pressing concerns regarding transparency and accountability in financial operations.
Umakhihe pointed out that the involvement of consultants in managing government affairs has led to opportunities for misuse and questionable financial practices that jeopardize the state’s economic integrity.
To address these issues, the committee has proposed corrective measures aimed at ensuring that government resources are utilized effectively for the benefit of Edo’s citizens.
“Furthermore, the report highlights the necessity of reviewing and, when needed, re-evaluating government agreements, memorandums of understanding, leases, and tenancy arrangements for transparency,” he continued.
He stressed that many agreements have been executed in ways that do not align with the best interests of Edo State and warrant critical reassessment.
Given the gravity of the findings, the committee strongly recommended that the government pursue further investigations and prosecute those found culpable, where appropriate. Umakhihe expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for the opportunity afforded to the committee members to contribute to enhancing governance and accountability in the state.
In response, Governor Okpebholo thanked the committee for its diligent work, assuring that its recommendations would be thoroughly reviewed and implemented.
“Thank you for the diligent effort and time invested in this exercise. Your findings and recommendations will be taken seriously and implemented accordingly,” he affirmed.
