By Reporter
The Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State has accused Mr. Godwin Obaseki, Governor, Edo State, of misusing a total sum of N37bn receipt from the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The amount according to him, is made up of N16bn refund for Federal Roads that were completed by Governor Adams Oshiomhole and N21bn oil derivation fund set aside for development of the three oil producing areas in the state.
“Mr. Godwin Obaseki has engaged in gross misuse of funds allocated to Edo state by the Federal government over time.
“You are aware that over N16 billion naira, was refunded to the state under the watch of Obaseki for the Federal Road fixed by his predecessor in office Senator Adams Oshiomhole, during his tenure as governor .
“Additionally, another N21 billion naira was given to Edo state from the Oil Derivation funds, which are intended for oil-producing states like ours, for infrastructural development, road inclusive.
“What we know is that Governor Obaseki presided over the misappropriation of these monies without recourse to these critical sector of our living.” Col Imuse said.
The APC chairman is also accusing Obaseki of demolishing the century years central hospital and handing the land to his friends.
“Governor Obaseki has shown a disturbing pattern of demolishing public and private properties including but not restricted to the Central hospital which land he allocated to his friends to build a museum that will not see the light of day.
“Instead of prioritizing crucial infrastructural developments, Mr Obaseki has chosen to build supermarkets all over the state which are over 45% owned by him and his cronies.” The APC Chairman queried!
He added that: “These actions demonstrate a clear lack of vision, responsibility and a disregard for the well-being of the people of Edo state.
“It is unacceptable that the governor would prioritize personal interests over addressing the urgent needs of our transportation infrastructure among other areas of great improtance to our people.
“The statement made by the Edo State government, accusing the Federal Government of neglecting its responsibilities, is a clear attempt to divert attention from these failures and mismanagement.
“It is disheartening to see such petty politics being played when the lives and safety of innocent Edo citizen albeit Nigerians are at stake.
“We urge the people of Edo state not to be deceived by the propaganda and political games of the Obaseki administration.
“The burning question Edo People should ask Governor Obaseki is ‘What did he do with the N16 Billion refunded by the Federal Government to Edo State as money used by his Predecessor to repair Federal Roads coupled with the N21 Billion derivation funds?’
“We must see through these falsehoods and hold Governor Obaseki accountable for his failures. His lamentation is the last kick of a dying horse.”
The All Progressives Congress state chairman pleaded and reassured Edo people of the readiness of the Federal Government to fix the roads to alleviate the hardship faced by motorists.
“I assure the good people of Edo state that the APC-led federal government is committed to addressing the road infrastructure challenges in our state.
“We understand the frustrations that our citizens face on a daily basis, and we are dedicated to finding a lasting solution, since the governor would rather bury his head in shame like an ostrich in the sand.
“The Federal Government is prioritizing and expediting the necessary repairs on the major federal roads in Edo state.
“The lives and well-being of Edo people like that of all Nigerians is too vital to politicized as Obaseki has been doing.” Col Imuse concluded.