News
Okpebholo’s Probe Committee and the Imperative of Transparency in Edo State,
Okpebholo’s Probe Committee and the Imperative of Transparency in Edo State,
By Augustine Osayande
In the ever-evolving discourse on governance and accountability, Edo State finds itself at a critical juncture. It is within this context that I seek to engage stakeholders and citizens alike on the necessity of transparency and responsible leadership.
Let me first extend my heartfelt congratulations to Senator Monday Okpebholo on his inauguration as the sixth democratically elected Governor of Edo State. His leadership represents not only a new administration but also a fresh opportunity to set a standard for integrity and progress.
The announcement of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee by Governor Okpebholo signals an important step in addressing the pressing issues of governance. The committee’s mandate to audit the assets and liabilities of the previous administration, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, is both timely and essential.
The committee’s inauguration on November 26, 2024, at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, will mark the beginning of what promises to be a transformative process.
The committee is chaired by Dr. Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, a figure whose expertise and credibility lend weight to the process, and deputized by Anslem Ojezua, a seasoned professional with deep roots in the state’s political and social fabric.
The committee’s membership reads as a roll call of Edo State’s best minds, including:
Prince Kassim Afegbua, Hon. Patrick Ikhariale, Mr. Taiwo Akerele, Hon. Patrick Idiake, Hon. Rasaq Bello-Osagie, Mr. Fredrick Unopah, Frank Osumuede Edebor Esq (Secretary), Mrs. Abdallah Eugenia, Hon. Patrick Obahiagbon, Pharm. Kenny Okojie, Mrs. Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Hon. Abass Braimoh.
These individuals represent a diverse cross-section of expertise, integrity, and commitment, ensuring the committee’s ability to deliver on its mandate.
Governor Okpebholo’s decision to establish this committee underscores his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability.
In a statement issued by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the committee is described as vital for fostering robust governance processes and addressing gaps left by the previous administration. The Governor has emphasized that the limited records provided by the Obaseki administration make this verification process both urgent and necessary.
This initiative represents a decisive break from past practices. It sets a new standard for governance in Edo State, prioritizing the interests of its people above political convenience or administrative inertia. Central to this committee’s work is the alarming debt profile of Edo State. Under the previous administration, the state’s debt reportedly soared from ₦43 billion in 2016 to over ₦500 billion in 2024.
This staggering increase raises serious questions about financial management, transparency, and the effectiveness of previous developmental initiatives.
Who authorized the ₦30 billion loan for the Benin City Storm Water Drainage Project, which remains incomplete? What became of the ₦14.7 billion World Bank loan for Edo State? How were the ₦11 billion agricultural development loan and other funds utilized? Why was the ₦2.32 billion loan for Edo City Transport Service poorly accounted for? What happened to the ₦34 billion African Development Bank loan for critical water projects like the Ojirami Dam and Ugboha Water Works?
The absence of tangible developmental outcomes despite massive borrowing has eroded public trust and cast a shadow over the state’s financial future. These questions are not merely about assigning blame—they are a call for justice and a demand for lessons to prevent such fiscal mismanagement in the future.
The probe committee’s work must mark the beginning of a new era of accountability in Edo State. By thoroughly investigating the state’s financial history, identifying the individuals and processes responsible for mismanagement, and implementing reforms, the government can lay the groundwork for a sustainable and development-focused administration.
Accountability is not just a moral imperative—it is a practical necessity. Naming and shaming those who recklessly incurred debt or misappropriated funds serves as both a deterrent for future leaders and a reassurance to the public that governance is being taken seriously.
This initiative also presents an opportunity to establish a robust framework for fiscal responsibility:
Preventing reckless borrowing through stricter approval processes and oversight mechanisms. Ensuring proper project implementation and monitoring to avoid abandoned projects and wasted resources. Establishing penalties for financial mismanagement to deter future violations. Such measures will not only address past failings but also create a foundation for sustainable development and financial stability.
The people of Edo State are watching closely. They expect this probe to set a precedent for future administrations, demonstrating that public office is a trust to be honored, not a privilege to be exploited. The journey ahead is challenging, but it is also an opportunity to redefine governance in Edo State.
Governor Okpebholo’s leadership, combined with the efforts of the Assets Verification Committee, can usher in an era of transparency, integrity, and accountability. This is a moment for Edo State to rise above past shortcomings and chart a path toward a brighter, more prosperous future.
To achieve these goals, collective effort is essential. Stakeholders, citizens, and public servants must work together to support the committee’s efforts and hold the government accountable for delivering on its promises. Transparency and accountability are not the responsibility of government alone—they are a collective mandate that requires active participation and vigilance from all.
Let this probe committee’s work be the starting point of a transformative journey for Edo State. Together, we can rebuild trust, restore integrity, and ensure that governance truly serves the people. The people of Edo deserve nothing less.
■ Augustine Osayande, PhD contributed this piece from Abuja via austinelande@yahoo.com
Zulum Appoints Ali Baware Pioneer DG of Rural Access Road Authority
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the appointment of Engr. Ali Abubakar Baware as the pioneer Director-General of the Borno State Rural Access Road Authority (RARA).
The Authority, which came into effect on 14th July 2026, is saddled with the responsibility of managing, developing, reconstructing, rehabilitating and maintaining Class D roads across the state, including ancillary infrastructure such as bridges and drainage.
In a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Dauda Iliya, Engr. Baware was the immediate past Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Works and Housing.
A seasoned engineer and administrator, Engr. Baware has held several administrative positions and is a member of professional bodies, including the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE), the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the Nigerian Institute of Civil Engineers.
The appointment is for a period of four years in the first instance.
Governor Zulum congratulated the Director-General on his appointment and charged him to deploy his wealth of experience and expertise to make the new agency functional.
Zulum Appoints Ali Baware Pioneer DG of Rural Access Road Authority
Korea Seeks Nigerian Manufacturing Shift, Urges Ratification of 20-Year Tax Treaty
…Ambassador calls for technology transfer, local production and investment beyond oil trade
By: Michael Mike
South Korea has urged Nigeria to restructure its trade relationship with the Asian country by shifting from crude oil exports and imports of manufactured goods to local production, technology transfer and investment in agriculture and industry.
Korean Ambassador to Nigeria, Jeong Yo-an, made the call on Wednesday in Abuja, saying the existing trade pattern had limited the potential of a bilateral relationship worth about $1.1 billion in 2025.
“Today, Nigeria sells us mostly oil and gas. Korea sells mostly cars, electronics and machinery. We can do much more than that,” he said.
Jeong identified local assembly, agricultural machinery production, digital skills, maritime services and emerging industries as priority areas for stronger cooperation.
He also urged Nigeria to ratify the double taxation agreement signed by both countries in 2006, saying the 20-year delay was affecting investor confidence.
He said predictable policies on foreign exchange, customs and taxation were necessary to attract long-term investments.
The ambassador cited the involvement of Korean companies in major Nigerian projects, including Daewoo Engineering and Construction’s work on the Nigeria LNG Train Seven project and the Indorama fertiliser plant. He also named Samsung, LG, Hyundai and Solpia among companies working with Nigerian partners in various sectors.
He encouraged Nigerian businesses to use the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency (KOTRA) office in Lagos to establish links with Korean companies and explore opportunities in the Korean market.
The beauty and cosmetics industry, he added, offered prospects for local distribution, employment and partnerships, with Korean manufacturers expected to participate in the Beauty West Africa exhibition on November 13.
On development cooperation, Jeong said about 2,000 Nigerian government officials had received training in South Korea through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA).
He said KOICA’s Smart School project, implemented with the Universal Basic Education Commission, had reached about 8,000 pupils and trained more than 300 teachers and school administrators.
He also highlighted the Abuja Centre for Entrepreneurship, being developed in partnership with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria and the United Nations Development Programme. Groundbreaking for the centre took place in September.
The facility is expected to provide young Nigerians with entrepreneurship training, mentorship and connections to finance and markets.
Jeong said Nigerian institutions would operate the centre, while a Training of Trainers programme would build local capacity to sustain its activities.
“A building alone does not create entrepreneurs,” he said, stressing the need to connect start-ups with investors, markets and private-sector operators.
He disclosed that KOICA was also working with the Food and Agriculture Organisation on agricultural initiatives aimed at creating green jobs for Nigerian youths.
Other areas of cooperation include digital development, postgraduate scholarships and government fellowships in information technology, public administration and health. The Nigeria-Korea Information Access Centre, established in Abuja in 2025, is also expected to strengthen digital literacy and access to technology resources.
The ambassador said future partnerships would place greater emphasis on private companies, start-ups and innovators, particularly in artificial intelligence, digital content and technology-based entrepreneurship.
He urged Nigeria to adapt lessons from South Korea’s development experience rather than attempt to replicate its model.
“The key word is not ‘copy’. The key word is ‘adapt’. Nigeria will write its own story. Korea is ready to share what we have learned,” he said.
On diplomatic relations, Jeong cited the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit in Seoul and the first Korea-Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in June as milestones in strengthening engagement.
He said South Korea welcomed Nigeria’s offer to host the seventh session of the Nigeria-Korea Joint Commission in Abuja.
He also disclosed that South Korea was working towards expanding its Official Development Assistance to $10 billion by 2030 and providing $14 billion in export financing to support Korean companies operating in Africa. The country is also planning to host the second Korea-Africa Summit in 2029.
The ambassador said cultural exchanges remained an important part of bilateral relations, disclosing that more than 300,000 people had participated in programmes organised by the Korean Cultural Centre Nigeria.
He said this year’s Korean Film Festival attracted about 1,000 participants, while the K-pop Festival in Lagos drew more than 400 young people. The 14th Korean Ambassador’s Cup Taekwondo Championship in Abuja also attracted about 350 athletes.
Jeong said the embassy planned to expand cultural activities to more Nigerian cities and universities and promote joint film and music productions. He disclosed that Nigerian creators had already produced two Korean-Nigerian drama productions.
He also pledged to support opportunities for Nigerian journalists to visit South Korea through media exchange programmes, including the World Journalists Conference.
The ambassador, a former military officer who served for 36 years before joining the diplomatic service, said he would focus on practical results during his tenure in Nigeria.
“The army taught me one simple lesson: trust is built when you keep your word. That is how I want to work in Nigeria – with more results,” he said.
Korea Seeks Nigerian Manufacturing Shift, Urges Ratification of 20-Year Tax Treaty
ECOWAS, Germany Open Strategic Dialogue as Berlin Commits €49m to West Africa
By: Michael Mike
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and Germany have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation, with Germany committing an additional €49 million to support regional development programmes for 2025 and 2026.
The commitment was highlighted during the opening of the strategic dialogue between ECOWAS and Germany in Abuja.
The Vice-President of the ECOWAS Commission, Anthony Ogunjimi, said the engagement marked a renewed approach to cooperation between the regional bloc and Germany, shifting from the traditional concept of consultation to a more strategic, open and constructive partnership.
He said the new strategic dialogue would provide an opportunity for both parties to deepen collaboration and address issues affecting regional development and the welfare of West African citizens.
Germany, which has been a partner to ECOWAS since 1985, has committed approximately €494 million in bilateral technical and financial cooperation over the years.
An additional €49 million was pledged for the 2025–2026 cooperation period during negotiations in November 2025.
The funding comprises €32.8 million for financial cooperation and €16.2 million for technical cooperation.
Ogunjimi, who spoke on behalf of the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Gen. Birame Diop, expressed appreciation to the German government for its longstanding partnership and support for the regional organisation and the people of West Africa.
The meeting was attended by the German Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Stefan Rossel; a delegation from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), led by Karen Pfundt, Head of Division for West Africa II; representatives of the German development agency, GIZ; and directors and senior officials of the ECOWAS Commission.
The strategic dialogue is expected to provide a platform for reviewing existing cooperation and identifying areas for stronger collaboration between Germany and ECOWAS.
ECOWAS, Germany Open Strategic Dialogue as Berlin Commits €49m to West Africa
Army Expansion Deals Major Blow to Terrorists as Troops Rescue 16 Kidnap Victims, Recover AK-47 Rifles, RPG Bombs, 33 Motorcycles in Niger
Niger Police Arrest Four Suspects Over Alleged Plot to Sacrifice Biological Children for Money Rituals
Zulum Appoints Ali Baware Pioneer DG of Rural Access Road Authority
Roger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
FAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
News3 years agoRoger Federer’s Shock as DNA Results Reveal Myla and Charlene Are Not His Biological Children
-
Opinions5 years ago
THE PLIGHT OF FARIDA
-
News2 years agoFAILED COUP IN BURKINA FASO: HOW TRAORÉ NARROWLY ESCAPED ASSASSINATION PLOT AMID FOREIGN INTERFERENCE CLAIMS
-
Opinions5 years agoPOLICE CHARGE ROOMS, A MINTING PRESS
-
News3 years agoEYN: Rev. Billi, Distortion of History, and The Living Tamarind Tree
-
ACADEMICS3 years agoA History of Biu” (2015) and The Lingering Bura-Pabir Question (1)
-
Columns3 years agoArmy University Biu: There is certain interest, but certainly not from Borno.
-
Politics1 year ago2027: Why Hon. Midala Balami Must Go, as Youths in Hawul and Asikira/Uba Federal Constituency Reject ₦500,000 as Sallah Gift
