Edo Governance: Okpebholo Not in Charge - TDM

 _...alleged gross financial misconduct in EDHA, Speaks of Weak Procurement Process._ 

By Chris Akhabue, Benin City

A prominent member of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and National Secretary of The Dickson Movement (TDM), Comrade Emmanuel Ogbidi, has alleged that Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, is not fully in control of governance in the state.

Ogbidi made the allegation in a statement issued and made available to journalists in Benin City, in which he expressed concern over recent developments in the Edo State House of Assembly, particularly the removal of the former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku.

According to him, the governor, as the chief executive and number one citizen of the state, ought to be sufficiently informed about major developments within the state, including issues involving the legislature.

Ogbidi questioned the governor's reported claim that he was unaware of the moves leading to Agbebaku's removal, arguing that the development was too significant for the state government to be unaware of.

He said: “We have observed with keen interest very disturbing developments within governance in Edo State, where somebody as highly exalted as the office of the governor claims ignorance of critical happenings capable of putting the state in jeopardy or causing unrest.”

He described the recent developments in the House of Assembly as “an inglorious show of shame,” alleging that Agbebaku was removed by lawmakers over issues bordering on misconduct and financial matters.

Ogbidi also questioned the manner in which a new Speaker emerged, describing the process as undemocratic and calling for adherence to due process and democratic principles in the conduct of legislative affairs.

“It is sad that lawmakers have become lawbreakers and that democratic institutions are no longer being run by democratic individuals who will give room for dissenting voices and proper due process,” he said.

He further expressed concern over the immediate visit by members of the House to Governor Okpebholo following the change in leadership of the Assembly.

According to him, the visit raised questions about the relationship between the executive arm of government and those behind the removal of the former Speaker.

Ogbidi said the governor's reported statement that he was unaware of the developments in the Assembly was difficult to reconcile with his position as chief executive of the state.

“It is either the governor is being economical with the truth, speaking half-truths to Edo people, or the governor is very much part of the orchestration that led to his removal, or the governor is not in charge of governance in Edo State,” he alleged.

He maintained that a governor should have access to intelligence and timely information concerning major developments across the executive, legislature and other sectors of the state.

“As governor of the state, he ought to know what is going on in the state. He ought to have intelligence reports about happenings in the state. But the governor said he wasn't aware of the plot to remove the Speaker,” Ogbidi stated.

He therefore urged Governor Okpebholo to strengthen his capacity and take firmer control of the administration of the state, saying effective governance should translate into improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare and other areas that directly affect residents and taxpayers.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Ogbidi urged Edo voters to carefully assess the candidates seeking elective positions and elect leaders who, according to him, would be accountable, responsive and fully in control of governance.

He added that the NDC had presented what he described as credible candidates across the three senatorial districts of Edo State, urging voters to consider the party as an alternative for leadership and governance.