Edo State’s Governor-elect, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has raised concerns over the sudden disappearance of the outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki, who reportedly fled the Edo State Government House last Friday.
In a statement released on Sunday by Okpebholo’s spokesperson, Godspower Inegbe, the Governor-elect claimed Obaseki left the Government House in Benin City aboard an unmarked bus, evading public and official channels.
“The whereabouts of Obaseki is unknown. He has chased everyone out of Edo State Government House. He has abandoned governance in the State, and he is on the run,” the statement read, pointing out Obaseki’s use of an unconventional exit route rather than the airport.
“If he is as popular as he claims, why did he not use the airport to escape?”
Obaseki, who on Saturday accused Okpebholo of failing to invite him to the upcoming inauguration, also claimed without evidence that the Governor-elect “stole” the electoral mandate. Okpebholo fired back, stating Obaseki has persistently sought to derail a peaceful transition since losing the September 21 election.
“Since Senator Okpebholo was declared winner, Obaseki has employed every means to frustrate a peaceful transfer of power,” the statement said, adding that Obaseki never initiated a meeting or tour of the Government House.
The Governor-elect further accused Obaseki of attempting to influence the tribunal’s proceedings with baseless claims, stating, “The Peoples Democratic Party and its candidate, Ighodalo, have no case against Senator Okpebholo. The tribunal will soon confirm that.”
In his closing remarks, Okpebholo warned Obaseki against further “false claims,” cautioning him on the legal consequences once he loses immunity.
He urged Edo residents to disregard Obaseki’s “reckless statements” and rally behind the incoming administration for a fresh start.
