Obaseki Denies ₦600 Billion Debt Allegation, Urges Fact-Based Governance in Edo

Former Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has firmly denied allegations that his administration left behind a staggering ₦600 billion debt upon exiting office in November 2024. In a pointed response to the claims, Obaseki challenged his successor, Governor Monday Okpebholo, to consult the Debt Management Office (DMO) for verified figures rather than relying on unsubstantiated assertions.

Speaking through his media aide, Crusoe Osagie, Obaseki criticized the current administration for what he described as a campaign of misinformation that not only misleads the public but also tarnishes Nigeria’s image on the global stage. He emphasized that no tier of government can legally accrue debt without the explicit oversight and documentation of the DMO.

Obaseki expressed dismay at what he sees as a lack of administrative understanding within the new leadership, particularly in light of comments made by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua. He labeled Afegbua’s remarks as baseless and damaging, warning that such rhetoric undermines both state and national credibility.

Addressing the scrutiny surrounding the Radisson Hotel project, Obaseki defended the initiative as a legitimate and transparent investment. He noted that the hotel, backed by international stakeholders from Germany, the UK, and France, was established through a formal agreement with the Edo State government. All documentation, he said, was included in the official handover to the new administration.

Obaseki dismissed the debt accusations as entirely unfounded, questioning the absence of any such figures in the DMO’s official records. He argued that perpetuating these claims reflects poorly on the competence of the current administration and erodes public confidence.

Reaffirming his commitment to fiscal responsibility, Obaseki maintained that his government left Edo State in sound financial health.

He called on the Okpebholo-led administration to prioritize transparency and accuracy in its public communications, warning that reckless statements could have lasting consequences for the state’s reputation and investor confidence.