- Edo State governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, warned banks against granting last-minute loans to the outgoing administration amid allegations of looting
- Okpebholo urged security agencies to investigate claims of questionable loans and looting of government properties by officials in the current administration
Edo State governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has warned banks and financial institutions strongly, urging them to avoid granting last-minute loans to the outgoing administration.
In a statement released Wednesday night in Abuja, Okpebholo raised concerns about alleged looting of government funds and properties, as the current administration nears the end of its term.
He claimed that Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration officials have been taking questionable loans from financial institutions.
Furthermore, some officials were allegedly involved in looting government properties such as vehicles, furniture, and relief items.
Okpebholo called on security agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and the police, to investigate the allegations and prevent further misconduct.
The incoming governor expressed disappointment, stating, “It is shocking that as the transition approaches, the outgoing administration is still reportedly obtaining loans under questionable circumstances.”
He also highlighted the widespread looting of government assets, emphasizing that this behaviour erodes public trust.
Edo State Commissioner for Information Chris Nehikhare acknowledged the accusations and promised to respond to them on Thursday.
Okpebholo urged financial institutions to exercise caution during this transitional period and advised the Accountant-General of Edo State to act with integrity.
The governor-elect warned that anyone found guilty of corruption would face consequences, stressing his administration’s commitment to accountability and zero tolerance for unethical conduct.