The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized Governor Monday Okpebholo’s first year in office. The party claims the administration has operated without clear vision, policy direction, or a coherent development framework.

Absence of Governing Roadmap

At a Wednesday press briefing, PDP leaders stated that after twelve months, the state government still lacks a published agenda or policy framework. According to the opposition party, this void has resulted in governance characterized by inconsistency and reactionary decision-making.

“Citizens have no benchmarks to measure performance,” the PDP noted. “What we’ve witnessed is policy drift and steady erosion of institutional norms established previously.”

Budget Presentation Criticized

The party highlighted the governor’s recent budget presentation as evidence of administrative shortcomings. Despite reportedly relying on consultants, PDP officials claimed Governor Okpebholo struggled during the delivery. His presentation reportedly lacked clarity and real-time engagement.

State PDP Chairman Tony Aziegbemi emphasized that budgets serve as governance statements. “A Governor struggling to present his own budget reveals unpreparedness,” Aziegbemi stated. “It shows fundamental lack of ownership and governing capacity.”

Cabinet Expansion Without Results

PDP leaders also denounced the administration’s expanded executive council. They allege appointments have multiplied without corresponding improvements in service delivery. The cabinet now functions more as “a patronage warehouse” than a policy-driven body according to the opposition.

Local Governance Crisis

A major concern raised involves local government administration. Edo remains among Nigeria’s few states without elected local council chairpersons. PDP asserts that duly elected officials were unlawfully removed.

Seven local governments have secured court judgments restoring their elected chairmen. These include Oredo, Ikpoba-Okha, and Etsako West. Despite valid rulings, PDP accuses the administration of ignoring court orders.

The party contrasted this with Osun State, where federal allocations were withheld over legitimacy concerns. “It’s alarming that funds continue flowing to Edo’s unelected administrators,” PDP officials stated.

Legacy Projects Under Threat

The PDP expressed support for former Governor Godwin Obaseki’s initiatives now facing dismantling. These include the Museum of West African Art, Radisson Blu Hotel, EdoBEST education reforms, and Ossiomo Power Project.

“These projects resulted from careful planning and discipline,” the party asserted. “Their removal appears driven by resentment rather than genuine reform. You cannot destroy value and label it governance.”

The PDP concluded that Edo currently suffers governance without direction, democratic respect, or rule of law adherence.