Edo PDP Chairman Tony Aziegbemi Defends Former Governor Obaseki’s Right to Choose his Residence

The Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State, Tony Aziegbemi, has asserted that former Governor Godwin Obaseki cannot be compelled or intimidated into returning to Edo State, emphasizing that the decision to return rests solely with Obaseki himself.

Aziegbemi made the statement while in Benin in response to calls from the Edo State Government urging Obaseki to come back and address allegations of financial impropriety during his tenure. He described these demands as unwarranted and expressed full support for Obaseki, condemning what he called attempts to undermine the former governor’s legacy of reforms and development.

He stressed that Obaseki, like every Nigerian, has the constitutional right to live wherever he chooses without fear of harassment or coercion. “Former Governor Obaseki is a free citizen of Nigeria and has the liberty to stay wherever he deems fit,” Aziegbemi said.

He also noted that Obaseki had previously written to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which reviewed Edo State’s financial records from his eight years in office, and to his knowledge, no formal invitation has been extended to Obaseki by any investigative agency.

Aziegbemi criticized the state government for making public demands and attempting to pressure Obaseki to return, calling such actions inappropriate and demeaning. “It is disturbing and unacceptable for any government official to suggest that he must return under intimidation. He will come back to Edo State when he personally decides to do so, not because someone in government says he should,” he stated.

In addition, the Edo PDP chairman challenged Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to provide a transparent account of the funds received from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) since taking office, calling for accountability and openness in governance.

This stance by the Edo PDP highlights ongoing political tensions in the state and underscores the party’s defense of Obaseki’s rights and reputation amid allegations and government pressure.