The Edo State Government has dismissed a recent statement from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Issued on December 2, 2025, the government labelled it an “emotional outburst”. It accused the PDP of replacing facts with assertions. Furthermore, it claimed the PDP offered praise instead of critical examination. The statement also suggested tribal loyalty overshadowed accountability.

Fred Itua, Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, signed the government’s response. He stated that the PDP deliberately overlooked critical issues. These issues directly affect the people of Edo State.

The government emphasized that Edo citizens deserve clear answers. They seek transparency in governance and security matters. It stated that rhetorical defenses are not sufficient. Especially not for actions that caused significant harm.

Addressing Security Concerns

The state government further accused the PDP. It claimed the party attempted to “whitewash” security lapses. These issues arose during the previous administration. The government clarified that security deterioration did not begin under Governor Okpebholo.

“Edo did not suddenly become a national concern after August 2024,” the statement read. It asserted that security challenges escalated. This acceleration occurred during the last administration. The government highlighted this as a fact the PDP avoids.

The government listed several inherited systemic failures. These included rising kidnappings and violent attacks. Previously peaceful communities were affected. Community vigilante structures also collapsed. This was due to poor coordination and inadequate logistical support. Security agencies faced significant challenges.

A notable disturbing incident involved Dr. Tony Aziegbemi. He was the then state PDP chairman. Criminals abducted him in Benin City’s GRA. His eventual release came after an operation that shocked many residents.

“These events are on public record,” Itua noted. He added that they show the extensive reach of criminal networks. The new administration inherited these complex challenges.

Scrutinizing Contested Projects

Responding to ‘vendetta’ allegations, the government countered the PDP. It stated the party was romanticizing failed or incomplete projects. Many of these projects had unresolved disputes. These issues predated Governor Okpebholo’s tenure.

The Saro Farms project, often highlighted by the PDP, became a major conflict point. This was due to contested land acquisitions. Multiple community petitions were filed. Unresolved grievances contributed to the unrest.

The statement confirmed community accusations. They claimed the previous administration acquired ancestral land. This happened “without proper settlement of outstanding claims”. Also, there was “inadequate consultation”.

“These disputes predate the current government,” Itua clarified. He added that they explain the unrest. The PDP now pretends this unrest never existed.

The government also rejected the PDP’s defense of the Benin Enterprise Park. It insisted the project remained “largely conceptual”. It also faced numerous community and legal hurdles.

“Independent reporting showed unclear financing,” the CPS said. He cited unresolved land disputes and inadequate compensation. “A project cannot run on slogans,” he concluded.

The decision to pause and reassess the project was necessary. It was based on practical realities, not political sabotage.

Furthermore, the Edo Government criticized the PDP. It faulted the party for ignoring “serious unanswered questions”. These questions surround the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).

Itua highlighted well-documented issues concerning MOWAA. These included protests from Benin traditional institution supporters. Program events were postponed. Campus visits were suspended. There was also a cultural and diplomatic dispute. This dispute concerned the custody of returned Benin bronzes.

Recent government actions provided further evidence. These included reviewing and revoking MOWAA-linked land titles. The statement pointed to an “absence of due diligence and transparency”. This was evident in the project’s planning.

“Obaseki’s administration must explain,” the statement insisted. It demanded clarification on decision-making processes. Also, land clearances and consultations were questioned. These led to the current impasse.

Challenges in Land Administration and Education

Regarding land administration, the Edo State Government noted issues with digital reforms. These reforms were introduced by Godwin Obaseki’s administration. Complaints included overlapping allocations and sudden revocations. Poor transparency also marred the system.

“Digital platforms succeed only with fairness,” Itua argued. He stressed the need for clear records and community trust. Without these, reforms falter.

Communities, elders, and citizens repeatedly raised concerns. This prompted the new government to launch audits. The goal is to restore confidence in the land system.

The government also challenged the PDP’s glowing defense of EdoBEST. Other reform programs were also questioned. Many teachers, communities, and assessors reported implementation gaps.

Itua cited several issues. These included teacher shortages in rural schools. Poor logistics were also a problem. Questions arose regarding the reforms’ sustainability.

“Strengthening and refining systems is not vandalism,” he added. “It is responsible governance.”

A Call for Transparency and Accountability

The Edo Government insisted the PDP focused on ‘style over substance’. It argued that past commendations are irrelevant. They cannot erase unresolved land disputes. Security breaches and MOWAA controversies remain significant.

“If Obaseki and the PDP want to defend their legacy,” the statement challenged. “They should produce supporting documents.” This includes consultations, contract records, and title histories. Audited accounts are also needed to show transparency.

The statement concluded by outlining the current administration’s commitment. Governor Okpebholo will operate with transparency and accountability. Errors will be openly corrected. Uncovered criminality or mismanagement will lead to lawful investigations. Appropriate institutions will handle these.

The government’s priorities remain clear. These include security restoration and transparent audits. Rebuilding trust is also crucial. This applies to traditional rulers, communities, and institutions.