Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced plans to probe the immediate past governor, Godwin Obaseki, over the alleged expenditure of $10 million on the state-owned newspaper, The Nigerian Observer.
Governor Okpebholo disclosed this during an unscheduled visit to the newspaperโs premises to inspect facilities and assess the progress of the revamping project initiated by the previous administration.
The governor, accompanied by top officials, expressed shock at the state of the facility, as he was unable to access the buildings housing the equipment purportedly purchased by Obasekiโs administration.
The once vibrant newspaper, which was shut down for revamping, remains non operational, raising questions about the utilisation of the funds.
Obasekiโs Special Adviser on Media Projects, Crusoe Osagie, and former Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Osa Nehikhare, were reportedly key figures in the project.
A statement by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, Fred Itua, stated that despite promises to transform The Observer into a competitive national daily, the media house has reportedly deteriorated further under the revamping initiative.
Governor Okpebholo, visibly displeased, vowed to return for a thorough inspection of the buildings and equipment.
He stated, โI was here to see for myself the $10 million claimed to have been spent by the former governor. The buildings were locked, and there was no evidence of activity. If the place was operational, people would have been present, especially given the resources invested.โ
He emphasised the need for accountability, adding, โEdo people deserve to know what happened to their money. As their governor, I am committed to providing answers.โ
The probe aims to uncover the truth behind the alleged mismanagement of funds and ensure transparency in the use of public resources.
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