The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the establishment of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki.
The committee, chaired by Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, with Anslem Ojezua as deputy chairman and Frank Edebor as secretary, is tasked with auditing the assets and liabilities left by the previous administration.
Its formal inauguration is scheduled for Tuesday, 26 November 2024, at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, at 1:00 pm.
Other committee members include Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, Taiwo Akerele, Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie, Fredrick Unopah, Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.
In a statement released on Sunday, Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, explained that the initiative aligns with Governor Okpebholo’s campaign promise of ensuring probity, accountability, and transparency in governance.
“In furtherance of the governor’s initiative to set the state on the path of development and accountable leadership, the establishment of a State Assets Verification Committee has become imperative.
Despite repeated calls for a comprehensive database of the assets and liabilities of the previous administration, the Godwin Obaseki-led government provided only scanty and limited information,” the statement read.
“In line with the governor’s campaign promise to ensure probity, accountability, and transparency in governance, a committee comprising respected sons and daughters of Edo State has been constituted.”
The move to probe the Obaseki administration gained momentum following reports from the permanent secretaries of various ministries in Edo State. According to a **PUNCH** report on 20 November, these briefings highlighted discrepancies in the previous government’s handling of state resources.
A government official, speaking anonymously, noted that the governor is currently reviewing these reports to determine the next steps.
“The governor is reviewing reports from the permanent secretaries of various ministries to evaluate the immediate past government. These findings will determine whether to initiate a probe and, if so, the scope of the investigation,” the source stated.
The official emphasized that Governor Okpebholo’s administration prioritizes the interests of Edo State citizens. The formation of the State Assets Verification Committee underscores the current administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
By constituting a team of seasoned professionals and notable figures, Governor Okpebholo seeks to ensure a thorough review of the state’s financial and physical assets, setting a foundation for trust and responsible governance.
The outcome of the committee’s investigation is expected to have far-reaching implications for governance and public accountability in Edo State.
