A former Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in Edo State, Chris Nehikhare, has dismissed claims that former Governor Godwin Obaseki is evading anti-corruption investigations, insisting the former governor remains available to respond to any inquiries if summoned.
Nehikhare stated this on Tuesday in Benin while answering questions from journalists.
According to him, Obaseki is currently away to allow his successor, Governor Monday Okpebholo, “the space and opportunity to prove his worth to the people of the state.”
“Former Governor Obaseki’s presence in Edo would make Governor Okpebholo’s administration uneasy, as Obaseki does not want him to be constantly compared to his own strong performance in office,” he said.
He stressed that the former governor left office honourably and is not avoiding law enforcement agencies.
“He is not on the run, and if anybody wants him, including the EFCC, ICPC and others, they can write to him and he would respond,” Nehikhare stated.
“Obaseki is doing his fellowship in a foreign university, and there is a government in place in Edo. His performance is not comparable to Okpebholo’s work now.
“Governor Obaseki is not coming back to Benin to run for Senate or any other position like other past governors. He has served at the highest level of governance in Edo, and it is that honour he would continue to maintain.”
Nehikhare also urged Edo residents to disregard the All Progressives Congress, APC, which he accused of repeatedly attempting to tarnish Obaseki’s image, noting that the former governor left lasting contributions to the state’s development.
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