Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has voiced strong criticism over the commissioning of incomplete public projects by the previous administration, describing the move as deceptive and a betrayal of public trust.
During an inspection tour on Tuesday, the governor visited the Stella Obasanjo Hospital and the Iyaro Education Hub Complex in Benin City, both of which were declared commissioned in October 2024, just weeks before the transition of power.
Expressing dismay at the state of the facilities, Okpebholo said he was stunned by the extent of unfinished work, particularly at the hospital, which he revealed was only about 60 percent completed.
He noted that many of the hospital beds had been recycled from the old structure, raising concerns about the quality and readiness of the facility.
“This is not just disappointing—it’s a disservice to the people of Edo,” Okpebholo stated. “We cannot continue with a culture of cosmetic governance where projects are declared complete for political optics while the reality tells a different story.”
The governor pledged to fast-track the completion of both projects and ensure they are fully operational before the end of the year. He directed contractors to accelerate work on the hospital and assured that the Education Hub would be mobilized immediately to fulfill its intended purpose.
The Iyaro Education Hub, designed to centralize key educational institutions including the Ministry of Education, SUBEB, a Library Board, an auditorium, and staff amenities, was also found to be far from completion.
Okpebholo criticized the previous administration’s decision to commission the complex prematurely, calling it misleading and irresponsible.
“Our administration is committed to accountability, transparency, and tangible results,” he said.
“We are not here to play politics with people’s lives. Every project must serve the public, not political narratives.” he added.
The contractor handling the Education Hub, George Bou Maroon, explained that the complex was envisioned as a central administrative hub for education in Edo State, but acknowledged that significant work remained to bring the vision to life.
Governor Okpebholo reiterated his administration’s resolve to restore integrity in governance by completing all abandoned or half-executed projects. “Edo people deserve honesty and visible progress, and that is exactly what we will deliver,” he affirmed.
