PDP Lambasts Edo Governor Over First Year Performance, Sparks Political Row

In a contentious assessment of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first year in office, the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has launched a scathing critique of the administration’s performance, igniting a heated exchange between opposition and government officials.

During a press conference in Benin, PDP State Chairman Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi accused the administration of mismanaging N236 billion in revenue over the past year, characterizing the period as “a wasted year marked by drift, decline, and deceit.”

The opposition party highlighted several areas of alleged decline, including a dramatic slowdown in land administration. According to Aziegbemi, monthly Certificate of Occupancy issuance has plummeted from 1,000 under the previous administration to merely 25 under Okpebholo’s leadership.

The PDP chairman outlined multiple concerns, including: – Delayed cabinet formation resulting in an “over-bloated team of recycled aides” – Lack of transparency in contract awards – Stalled capital projects, except for “an ill-thought-out flyover” – Deterioration of the EdoBEST education model – Neglect of healthcare facilities and insurance schemes – Local government administrative challenges

The controversy extended to the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) project, with Aziegbemi defending former Governor Obaseki’s vision. He cited comparative statistics: Paris has 136 museums in 105 square kilometers, while Benin City, with 1,204 square kilometers, could potentially support 500 museums.

In response, Edo State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, dismissed the PDP’s accusations as baseless. He characterized the opposition party as “deep in deceit, soaked in liquor, and psychedelic in emanation,” while asserting that the current administration is “delivering on our promises and making sure there is value for money.”

The sharp exchange highlights the growing political tension in Edo State, where Governor Okpebholo maintains his administration is successfully implementing its SHINE agenda, despite opposition claims to the contrary. The dispute over governance performance and resource management continues to shape the state’s political discourse.