The Edo State Governor Elect,Senator Monday Okpebholo on Wednesday raised the alarm, alleging looting of government’s funds and properties by politicians in the state.
He said the officials of the out-going administration have swooped on the treasury and public properties of the state, in less than one month to the end of their stay in office.
He has also alerted the various banks where the state’s funds are domiciled, warning them to be wary of dealing with the out-going officials, especially on any matter that will put the state in dire financial danger.
The Governor-Elect in a statement, accused the out-going Governor and his team “ of taking unscrupulous loans from banks and other financial institutions while government officials were also feasting on properties including vehicles, furniture and rice, looting them with careless abandon”.
Okpebholo in the statement said: “With a great shock, we regret the widespread reports of looting of government funds and properties by officials of the out-going administration from the Government House, Benin City.
“It is sad that barely one month to handover, the out-going administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki is still allegedly obtaining loans from banks and other financial institutions under very shady headings.
“We are also aware of the massive looting and vandalisation of properties including vehicles, furniture, gadgets, household utensils and even carpets from offices and residences of Edo state Government.
“This unacceptable behavior undermines the trust and faith of our citizens in those entrusted to serve them in the past 8 years.”
The governor-elect in the statement called on the relevant authorities including the EFCC, Police and DSS “to investigate the allegations thoroughly and ensure that those found guilty are held accountable while protecting Government House and offices from vandals.”
Sounding a note of warning, the statement added that “banks and other financial institutions are by this notice, cautioned to desist from any dealings that will undermine the finances of the state, especially giving out of loans to government at this period of transition.
“The Accountant General of Edo state, is hereby advised to uphold the principle of integrity in his duty, as the only act that will put his name in gold. There will be dire consequences for any act of impunity and stealing on any person or institution found wanting in this regard.”
Meanwhile, the Edo State Commissioner for Information and Communication, Chris Nehikhare, in a telephone chat, said the State Government will respond to the allegations.
“I’ll respond to the allegations on Thursday,” he said.
