Philip Shaibu, the reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, has announced a reward of N1 million for anyone providing information related to the alleged looting of government assets as the current administration approaches its end.
During a press conference in Benin City on Friday, Shaibu claimed to possess evidence supporting allegations of looting and last-minute borrowing by the outgoing administration under Governor Godwin Obaseki.
He urged the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant authorities to investigate what he described as the misappropriation of funds intended for various projects, including the ministry of roads and bridges and the ongoing Radisson Hotel project.
Advertorial
Shaibu expressed concern over reports that banks and financial institutions were issuing last-minute loans to the governor.
“This is alarming and not in good faith. I strongly advise banks and financial institutions against granting any loans or financial instruments to Governor Obaseki or any state government official,” he said.
He further alleged that there are plans to misuse state funds by disguising such actions through non-governmental organizations (NGOs) that would appear to support their projects.
Advertorial
“These actions threaten the financial stability of our state and could mortgage its future. I dissociate myself and my office from any such dealings,” Shaibu stated.
The deputy governor condemned the recent indiscriminate appointments within the civil and public service, claiming they were made at excessive grade levels.
“These actions not only damage the integrity of the civil service but also foster a culture of cronyism,” he added.
Advertorial
Shaibu also accused the administration of backdating contracts for consultants to justify exorbitant expenditures.
He invited the EFCC and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate alleged contract fraud under the supervision of Ferguson Enabulele and others in the government.
He indicated that investigations were underway concerning certain engineers in the ministry who reportedly colluded with a permanent secretary to misappropriate funds through their registered company accounts.
Advertorial
In response, an anonymous government official stated that the administration would not dignify Shaibu’s claims with a response, noting that had he held significance in the All Progressives Congress, he would have been included in the transition committee led by Okpebholo.
