The Edo State Government has dismissed a statement issued by the PDP on December 2, 2025, describing it as an emotional outburst that substitutes rhetoric for evidence and tribal loyalty for accountability.
In a statement signed by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the government accused the PDP of deliberately ignoring the pressing issues affecting Edo residents, including governance, security, and transparency.
“Edo people deserve straight answers about governance, security, and transparency, not rhetorical cover for conduct that left real and lasting harm in its wake,” the statement said.
Security Failures Under Previous Administration
The Edo Government insisted that the current administration inherited systemic security problems from the last government, rejecting PDP’s claims of political vendetta.
“Edo did not suddenly become a national concern after August 2024; the security deterioration accelerated during the last administration, and this is a fact the PDP refuses to confront,” Itua said.
The statement highlighted incidents such as rising kidnappings, violent attacks in previously peaceful areas, the collapse of vigilante networks, and inadequate logistical support for security agencies. The abduction of former state PDP chairman Dr. Tony Aziegbemi in Benin City’s GRA was cited as a particularly alarming example.
“These events are on public record and demonstrate the reach of criminal networks that the new administration met,” Itua added.
Contested Projects: Saro Farms and Benin Enterprise Park
The government challenged the PDP’s defence of past projects, saying disputes over land acquisition, unresolved community grievances, and legal complications predated the current administration.
The Saro Farms project was highlighted as a flashpoint due to contested land and multiple community petitions. The Benin Enterprise Park was described as “largely conceptual,” with issues around unclear financing, unresolved land disputes, and inadequate compensation.
“A project cannot run on slogans. The decision to pause and reassess was based on practical realities, not political sabotage,” the CPS said.
Questions Over MOWAA Transparency
The Edo Government also raised concerns about the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), citing unresolved disputes over returned Benin bronzes, postponed events, and suspension of campus visits.
“Recent steps to review or revoke land titles linked to MOWAA further highlight the absence of due diligence and transparency in the project’s planning,” Itua said.
Land Administration and EdoBEST Reforms
The statement noted that complaints of overlapping land allocations, sudden revocations, and poor transparency marred digital land reforms introduced under Obaseki. Audits have been launched to restore confidence in the system.
On EdoBEST and other reform programmes, the government acknowledged achievements but pointed out gaps, including teacher shortages in rural schools, logistics issues, and questions about sustainability.
“Strengthening and refining systems is not vandalism; it is responsible governance,” Itua stated.
Call for Evidence-Based Defence
The Edo Government concluded by urging the PDP faction to support claims about Obaseki’s legacy with documents, consultations, contract records, title histories, and audited accounts.
“Where errors were made or decisions need correction, Governor Okpebholo will correct them openly. Where criminality or mismanagement is uncovered, appropriate institutions will take over for lawful investigation,” the statement added.
The government reiterated its focus on restoring security, conducting transparent audits, and rebuilding trust with traditional rulers, communities, and institutions.
