Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has taken a decisive step towards accountability by establishing a 14-member Assets Verification Committee. The panel, set to be inaugurated on Tuesday, aims to investigate the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
“This initiative is about transparency and ensuring Edo State moves forward with clear records,” said Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the governor, in a statement on Sunday. He added that the committee will create a comprehensive database of the state’s assets and liabilities, a task critics claim was inadequately addressed by the previous administration.
Chaired by Ernest Umakhihe, the committee includes notable figures such as Anslem Ojezua as deputy chairman and Frank Edebor as secretary. Other members include Patrick Obahiagbon and Kassim Afegbua, reflecting a cross-section of respected Edo leaders.
“Despite repeated calls for a complete inventory, Obaseki’s administration provided limited information on state assets and liabilities,” the statement alleged. “This committee will honor Governor Okpebholo’s campaign promise of probity, accountability, and transparency.”
The move has drawn mixed reactions. Supporters say it is a necessary step to ensure good governance. Critics, however, warn it could deepen political divisions in the state.
Edo State residents will closely watch the committee’s progress, as the findings could impact public perception of both the current and former administrations. The committee’s report is expected to lay the foundation for future development initiatives.
