Okpebholo: Obaseki Left ₦180b Debt to Local Contractors

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, yesterday disclosed that his administration inherited about ₦180 billion debt owed to local contractors from the immediate past administration of Mr. Godwin Obaseki.

Speaking at the event marking his first anniversary in office, themed “365 Days: Rebuilding a New Edo — One Year of Practical Governance,” the governor said the debt formed part of over ₦600 billion in total local and foreign liabilities left behind by his predecessor.

Okpebholo lamented the lack of transparency in the loan processes, noting that his administration has since commenced payment to genuine local contractors.

> “We met a state weighed down by rot, debt, insecurity, and distrust. Through focus, prayer, and teamwork, we are laying a new foundation for growth, anchored on resilient institutions and renewed confidence in government,” he said.

 

The governor recalled that on assumption of office, the state was plagued by insecurity, including cult killings, kidnapping, armed robbery, and cybercrime.

According to him, more than 300 cult-related killings were recorded in 2024 alone.

> “We acted decisively by strengthening the anti-cultism law, supplying 60 vans and 40 motorcycles to security agencies, and recruiting 2,500 officers into the Edo State Security Corps. Today, Edo will no longer be a safe haven for criminals,” he said.

 

On healthcare, Okpebholo said he met a system in disarray, with hospitals lacking essential drugs and demoralised workers.
He added that the government has begun constructing new primary healthcare centres in all 18 local government areas, provided diagnostic equipment, and commenced work on a 150-bed hospital.

Highlighting his administration’s achievements, the governor said contracts for 28 new roads—covering more than 250 kilometres—have been awarded, alongside two new flyovers at Ramat Park and Adesuwa Junction in Benin City.

He also announced the creation of over 10,000 direct and indirect jobs, a ₦1 billion interest-free loan scheme for small-scale traders, and a ₦1 billion scholarship fund for indigent students in tertiary institutions.

Okpebholo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and support, saying his encouragement has been instrumental to the success of the Edo project.