Edo Governor Okpebholo Approves Formation of 14-Member Panel to Investigate Obaseki’s Administration

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has approved the formation of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki. The committee, which will be inaugurated on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, at the Festival Hall, Government House in Benin City, will be led by Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe as chairman. Anslem Ojezua will serve as deputy chairman, while Frank Edebor will act as the committee’s secretary.

The committee will also include prominent members such as 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 issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, it was noted that the establishment of the committee is a key part of Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to bringing accountable leadership and transparency to the state. The statement further highlighted that, despite numerous calls for a comprehensive database of assets and liabilities from the previous administration, the Obaseki-led government had only provided limited information.