Edo Govt, PDP Clash Over Governor’s Absence, N4.2b SUV Budget

The Edo State Government and the state chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have engaged in a war of words over the alleged absence of Governor Monday Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, as well as claims of wasteful government spending.

In a statement yesterday, the PDP Caretaker Committee Publicity Secretary, Chris Nehihkare, accused both leaders of being away on foreign trips simultaneously, describing it as an “unprecedented abdication of duty” that has created a “dangerous leadership vacuum” in the state.

Nehihkare alleged that the government is neglecting critical challenges facing Edo residents, including insecurity, economic hardship, and stalled public services while prioritising luxury and political patronage.

The party also faulted the administration’s decision to nominate 28 commissioners and budget N4.2 billion for sport utility vehicles (SUVs), with each estimated to cost about N150 million. It further criticised what it called a “reckless expansion of government” through the appointment of numerous advisers, board chairmen, and heads of parastatals, warning that such spending was pushing the cost of governance to unprecedented levels.

“The APC-led government in Edo has chosen waste and extravagance over the welfare of citizens. Unlike other states that have used increased federal allocations to improve worker welfare and raise the minimum wage, Edo is heading in the opposite direction,” Nehihkare said.

Responding, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, dismissed the PDP’s claims as “falsehoods,” stressing that the deputy governor had already returned to the country and was discharging his duties.

“Edo State is not rudderless. It remains firmly on course under the purposeful leadership of Governor Okpebholo and his deputy,” he said.