The outgoing Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has been reported missing since Friday, November 8, according to a statement released by the incoming Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Obaseki allegedly fled Benin City, the state capital, using an unmarked bus, abandoning governance in the state.
Okpebholo in a statement signed by God’s power Inegbe on Sunday, expressed concern over Obaseki’s recent “reckless utterances” and urged him to evaluate his state of mind. “Obaseki is trying to push out these narratives in order to distract the public. His antics will not work. We know his plans, and we will continue to expose his shenanigans to Edo people,” the statement read.
Obaseki had claimed that Okpebholo did not invite him to his inauguration, scheduled for Tuesday, and also alleged that Okpebholo has a “stolen mandate.”
However, Okpebholo countered that Obaseki needs “serious and urgent attention” and has employed every means to frustrate a peaceful transfer of power.
“As a sitting Governor, Obaseki should tell Edo people and Nigerians if he has ever invited the Governor-Elect, Senator Okpebholo to Government House for a meeting or a tour as a responsible man.
Has Obaseki called Senator Okpebholo to congratulate him since he won the election?” Okpebholo asked.
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Okpebholo maintained that he won the elections convincingly and that the tribunal will soon validate his claims. “Obaseki will not get away with this misrepresentation. Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Governor-Elect of Edo State, won the 21st September governorship election in Edo State,” he stated.
The Governor-Elect also warned Obaseki to desist from making false claims, reminding him that he will soon lose his immunity and face the full wrath of the law if he continues. “We urge Edo people to disregard Obaseki’s reckless statements and support the incoming administration of Senator Okpebholo to remedy the many wrongs of this government.”