Edo APC Criticizes Governor Obaseki’s Final-Appointments Move

Edo’s All Progressives Congress raises concerns over Governor Obaseki’s last-minute appointments and actions, warning of potential challenges for the incoming administration

The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has voiced strong concerns over Governor Godwin Obaseki’s recent moves to appoint numerous former aides and staff from his personal firm, Afrinvest, into the state’s civil service. The APC asserts that these final actions could create obstacles for Monday Okpebholo, the governor-elect, and has urged citizens to remain alert to these developments.

In a statement released by Jarrett Tenebe, chairman of the state’s APC chapter, the party revealed it had received multiple reports regarding these last-minute decisions. According to Tenebe, “The outgoing administration is making hasty decisions that bypass civil service protocols, such as hiring without public job announcements or involving the Civil Service Commission, effectively loading the workforce with loyalists.”

Furthermore, the party contends that Obaseki’s initiative to establish a new minimum wage of N85,000 is another instance of creating future financial and administrative strain, especially considering that the current N70,000 wage has not yet been fully implemented.

The APC also pointed to ongoing probes by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which they claim uncover questionable ties between the governor’s business interests and public resources. These issues, they argue, stem from hurriedly approved projects and inflated contracts designed to benefit Obaseki’s allies. The party has called on Edo’s citizens to rally in defense of public funds and ensure accountability as the government transitions.

In response, Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, dismissed the APC’s concerns, advising them to “roll up their sleeves and prepare for governance” rather than “complain over every issue.” Nehikhare assured residents that the state’s financial reserves would be left in a stable condition for the incoming administration, countering APC’s claims about potential financial shortcomings.

This exchange reflects the growing tensions surrounding Obaseki’s closing term decisions and sets a tone for the incoming administration’s transition phase.