The Edo APC Transition Committee, led by esteemed former Deputy Governor Dr. Pius Odubu, has set a solid foundation for Senator Monday Okpebholo’s incoming administration through its diligent investigation and recommendations. The committee’s work embodies transparency, accountability, and governance reform principles, worthy of celebration.
The committee identified key areas requiring immediate attention, including the absence of audited financial statements from Governor Godwin Obaseki’s outgoing administration. This lack of transparency is startling, as a state’s finances should be carefully documented and disclosed to maintain public trust. The committee recommends instituting an inquiry or Assets Verification Panel into the outgoing government’s financial activities, a timely and necessary move.
The committee also highlighted the need to review Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) for critical public institutions, such as the Central and Stella Obasanjo Hospitals. These hospitals serve as vital healthcare facilities, and any partnership or management decisions should be clear, open, and in the best interest of the Edo people. This recommendation demonstrates a clear focus on safeguarding public assets and ensuring essential services are managed with integrity.
Debt accountability is another critical concern, with the committee demanding accountability for local and foreign debts incurred under Obaseki’s administration. Public debt has real consequences for the state and its citizens. “Obaseki borrowed a lot and mortgages Edo’s future. Every kobo he borrowed should have been carefully justified, spent with prudence, and thoroughly documented, but not so.” This expectation of accountability will demonstrate the new administration’s resolve to ensure transparent financial decisions benefiting Edo people.
The committee’s call for an investigation into key projects, such as the Benin Shopping Mall, Ossiomo Power Plant, Raddisson Blu Hotel, and the Museum of West Africa Arts (MOWAA), champions Edo citizens’ interests. The people have a right to know the state’s equity stake in these projects, developed to benefit the public.
The transition committee raised concerns over EdoBest, recommending a probe to unveil its opaque operations. Education reform should be managed openly, with clear benefits accessible to the public. Reviewing this program aligns with the incoming administration’s commitment to transparency in public initiatives, especially in critical sectors like education.
Concerns surrounding the Ministry of Roads and Bridges, particularly regarding major contracts that may not have adhered to due process, underscore the committee’s commitment to transparency and proper governance. Major infrastructure projects must follow rigorous standards to prevent misuse of public funds. The incoming administration’s adherence to these recommendations would set a precedent that accountability in public contracts is non-negotiable.
Finally, the committee demands a streamlined ICT ecosystem, proper teacher headcount, and cancellation of last-minute employment by the outgoing administration. These recommendations address critical areas impacting Edo citizens’ everyday lives, from education quality to public administration efficiency.
As Edo prepares to usher in Senator Okpebholo’s administration, the APC Transition Committee has laid out a clear roadmap toward restoring trust, ensuring transparency, and upholding accountability.
