Obaseki: EFCC Plans to Arrest Me After Tenure, But I'm Not Afraid

EFCC Plans to Arrest Me, Says Obaseki

“I hear that the EFCC will pick me next week after my tenure. Wherever they...”

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki claims the EFCC plans to arrest him after his tenure ends on November 14, 2024, citing political vendettas.

Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has made a bold statement, alleging that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) plans to arrest him after he leaves office. Speaking at the EdoBEST National Results-Sharing Session in Abuja, Obaseki described the purported arrest as a political vendetta fueled by “silly petitions” from his adversaries.

Pointers:

EFCC Arrest Plans: Obaseki claims the EFCC plans to arrest him after his tenure ends on November 14, 2024.

No Fear: The governor expressed confidence in his administration's integrity, stating he's not afraid of any potential arrest or investigation.

Political Witchhunt: Obaseki views the EFCC's plans as another round of political witch-hunting.

Legacy: He emphasized his administration's focus on reforms in education and civil service, highlighting his achievements and legacy.

Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has revealed that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) plans to detain him after his term ends on November 14, 2024, over alleged fraudulent activities. Despite several petitions lodged against him, Obaseki remains unfazed, asserting he has nothing to hide and is prepared to cooperate if called upon.

Obaseki attributed these allegations to individuals driven by personal vendettas, seeking to tarnish his legacy. With confidence in his integrity, he declared that even if detained, he would utilize the time to conduct research, underscoring his transparent administration.

The governor emphasized that his accomplishments will speak for themselves, despite efforts to undermine him. Notably, his administration has championed policy reforms, improving basic education, agriculture, power, revenue, and infrastructure. The establishment of the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy has enhanced the efficiency and effectiveness of public service delivery, attracting investments and creating job opportunities.

Looking ahead, Obaseki plans to offer consultancy services, making his expertise accessible and affordable. His experience as governor will guide his contributions beyond public office. Some of his notable achievements include:

Economic Reforms: Initiated the “Alaghodaro” annual meeting to facilitate investments and stakeholder engagement

Education: Implemented the Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST)

Agriculture: Attracted $500m investment in plantation agriculture through the Edo State Oil Palm Project (ESOPP)

Infrastructure: Established the Edo Geographical Information Service (EdoGIS) for transparent land administration

These accomplishments demonstrate Obaseki's commitment to transforming Edo State and leaving a lasting legacy.

“I hear that the EFCC will pick me next week after my tenure. Wherever they keep me, I'll spend time doing research,” he said.

“There are many things we have done that can be described as legacy projects. I believe in Edo State; one of the things that will last for a very long time to come is the fact that we were able to focus on Edo people and the things that matter to them, reform and implement those things.

“Why should I have fears? I just focused on what I believe in and today, you can see what has been achieved.

“What happens after that is not up to me. They can continue with their political witch-hunt and do all they can to hurt me, that's their problem.

“I'm not afraid, I'm not worried. They have written all sorts of silly petitions against me and that's part of the challenge.”

“In fact, I can even hand myself over, and if they call me. I don't have anything to hide,” he added.

Edo State Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has come out swinging against the current administration, accusing Governor Godwin Obaseki's government of securing dubious loans from banks and financial institutions. Okpebholo alleges that officials in the outgoing administration have mismanaged public funds and made off with government assets, including vehicles, furniture, and even rice.

These serious allegations aren't just being thrown around without consequence; Okpebholo has formally requested that agencies like the EFCC, the police, and the Department of State Services conduct thorough investigations into these claims back in October. This move underscores Okpebholo's commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.

As the incoming governor, Okpebholo's focus on economic reform, foreign investment, and infrastructure development aligns with his desire to bring stability and growth to Edo State. His campaign promises and recent statements suggest a strong commitment to rooting out corruption and ensuring responsible governance.

Allegations:

Questionable Loans: Okpebholo accuses Obaseki's administration of securing dubious loans from banks and financial institutions.

Misappropriation of Funds: Allegations of public fund mismanagement by officials in the outgoing administration.

Theft of Government Assets: Vehicles, furniture, and rice allegedly taken by officials.

It's essential to note that these allegations are serious and warrant investigation. The people of Edo State deserve transparency and accountability from their leaders.