Edo Governor-Elect, Monday Okpebholo, urges banks to stop loans amid allegations of looting by the outgoing administration led by Governor Obaseki.

[dropcap]E[/dropcap]do State Governor-Elect, Monday Okpebholo, has called on banks to cease granting loans to the state government during the ongoing transition period.

His statement comes amid serious allegations of looting of government funds and properties by officials of the outgoing administration led by Governor Godwin Obaseki.

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In a statement released on Wednesday by his Special Assistant on Media, Godswill Inegbealso, Okpebholo expressed shock at reports of widespread financial misconduct.

He urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) to launch a thorough investigation into the alleged misappropriation of government assets.

“Barely one month to the handover, the outgoing administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki is still allegedly obtaining loans from banks and other financial institutions under very shady headings,” Okpebholo remarked.

He highlighted the significant looting and vandalism occurring, which reportedly includes vehicles, furniture, gadgets, and other property from various government offices.

“This unacceptable behaviour undermines the trust and faith of our citizens in those entrusted to serve them over the past seven years,” he added.

In light of these allegations, Okpebholo cautioned banks and financial institutions against any dealings that could jeopardise the state’s finances. He urged them to refrain from granting loans to the Edo State Government during this sensitive transition period.

The statement went on to advise the Accountant General of Edo State to uphold integrity in his duties, emphasising that such adherence would ensure a commendable legacy.

Okpebholo warned that any acts of impunity or theft would result in severe consequences for those involved.

“We will continue to monitor the situation until the last day of the outgoing administration. Senator Monday Okpebholo will not condone any form of unethical behaviour, as he stresses a zero-tolerance policy for corruption,” the statement concluded.

In response to Okpebholo’s allegations, Edo State’s Commissioner for Orientation and Information, Chris Nehikhare, stated he would address the matter on Thursday.

The current government has urged Okpebholo and his associates to refrain from making allegations and claims until November 12, the official handover date.

Crusoe Osagie, Special Adviser on Media Projects, dismissed Okpebholo’s statements as unfounded, describing them as incoherent and filled with misinformation.

He stated, “Assuming he is truly speaking for the Governor-Elect, the immodesty is most reprehensible. He made wild allegations, which he cannot substantiate because they are barefaced lies.”

Osagie further asserted that there cannot be two governors in Edo State simultaneously and urged the incoming administration to wait for the formal transition before attempting to govern.