“Obaseki Must Come Out of Hiding for Questioning” — Oshiomhole Tells Okpebholo to Probe Ex-Governor

Senator Adams Oshiomhole has called on Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State to launch a thorough investigation into the administration of his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. Speaking during an event celebrating the Supreme Court’s affirmation of Okpebholo’s election victory, Oshiomhole said the new governor now has the time and mandate to examine financial activities under the former government, particularly the controversial Radisson Hotel Project.

Oshiomhole, a former governor of Edo and political predecessor to Obaseki, accused the previous administration of mismanaging state funds, claiming that tens of billions of dollars were invested in the hotel project, only for the state to be left as a minority shareholder. He urged Okpebholo to scrutinize the deal and establish accountability.

The Radisson Hotel initiative, launched under Obaseki’s tenure, was positioned as a strategy to boost tourism and economic development. However, the project has drawn criticism over its funding transparency and ownership structure, with allegations suggesting that 80 percent of the hotel was handed over to a private entity despite significant public investment.

Beyond the hotel, Oshiomhole also raised concerns about infrastructure quality under Obaseki, pointing to roads that he claims have already deteriorated, unlike those built during his own tenure. He said that proper investigation would be part of a broader effort to “rescue Edo” and ensure that past misgovernance is addressed.

“So by the time Your Excellency now has time for the second rematch, Obaseki will have to come out from hiding to answer those questions,” Oshiomhole said. “To rescue means you must also investigate. How did we get here?”

He challenged Obaseki to return to Edo and walk the streets of Benin alongside him and Governor Okpebholo, inviting the public to compare the legacies of past administrations.

Oshiomhole praised Okpebholo’s leadership so far, saying it has brought renewed unity to the state. He emphasized that the unity of the people is just as important as physical development and is especially crucial for Edo, which he described as a minority in both national and political contexts.

“What God has put to stand, no man can bring down,” Oshiomhole said. “When He gives you a job, He will not give you luggage that your neck cannot bear.”