By our correspondent
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has disclosed that upon assuming office, he had to personally purchase a new chair after discovering that his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, had taken the official seat bearing Nigeria’s Coat of Arms when leaving office.
Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics, Okpebholo recounted his experience upon taking over, revealing that he was forced to fund the acquisition of a new office chair.
“Even when I entered government, I had to use my money to buy my seat. Obaseki took his seat. The chair, yes. It was in the office with the Nigerian Coat of Arms. He took it. Somebody who can take an office chair, tell me what he will not take,” he remarked.
On the issue of probing the previous administration, the governor clarified that while he would not personally initiate an investigation, existing systems would naturally scrutinize financial dealings and recover any misappropriated funds.
“I am not the one probing them. The system will probe them. I’m telling you, so much money is tied to a different thing. Those monies will come out when the time comes. I’m not going to hide anything,” he stated.
Addressing his electoral victory, Okpebholo attributed his success to divine intervention, asserting that he would still win even if he contested again in 20 years.
“Can you even point out one godfather who was pushing me?” he queried when asked about political backing. “God was using people to help me, to support me, to get to where I am today.”
He emphasized that the people of Edo were eager for change, crediting this sentiment for his victory.
“Edo people spoke. We were hungry for a change. Even in the next 20 years, I will win,” he asserted.
Reflecting on his Senate victory against a sitting senator, Okpebholo noted the challenges faced, including infrastructure and economic difficulties.
“At that time, everything was working against us. There was no water in my place, no light, no road, no money, no fuel. Everything was against us. Compared to the PDP that was favored. But yet, we won,” he added.
His statements have sparked discussions about governance transitions and financial accountability in Edo State.