Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has reacted to reports suggesting that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) plans to arrest him after his tenure ends on November 14, saying he has nothing to hide.
During the EdoBEST National Results-Sharing Session in Abuja on Thursday, Obaseki revealed he had received information about the EFCC’s alleged intentions to detain him over accusations of fraud.
Despite these claims, the governor expressed that he is unafraid of any potential arrest or investigation, attributing the accusations against him to personal vendettas.
Obaseki emphasized that he has nothing to hide and would be at ease even if taken into custody by the EFCC.
“I hear that the EFCC will pick me up next week after my tenure. Wherever they keep me, I’ll spend time doing research,” Obaseki remarked.
He went on to highlight the significant projects and reforms he has implemented during his time in office, which he believes will leave a lasting legacy in Edo State.
Obaseki dismissed the allegations as part of a political witch-hunt, stressing that he is not worried about the accusations.
He pointed out that the petitions filed against him are based on falsehoods.
The governor further accused his political opponents of harboring jealousy and resentment towards his achievements over the past eight years, attributing their actions to envy.
He expressed that the focus should be on addressing the country’s issues and improving the lives of its citizens.
In his words, “There are many things we have done that can be described as legacy projects. I believe in Edo State. One of the enduring achievements is our focus on the Edo people and issues that matter to them, implementing necessary reforms.
“Why should I be afraid? I just focused on what I believe in, and today, you can see what has been accomplished. What happens after that is beyond my control. They can continue with their political witch-hunt and do all they can to harm me. That’s their problem.
“I’m not afraid; I’m not worried. They’ve written all sorts of unfounded petitions against me, and that’s part of the challenge. In fact, I can even turn myself in if they call me – I have nothing to hide.”
The governor accused his opponents of being envious of his achievements over the past eight years, stressing that he has left a legacy in the South-South state.
“You know how this country is. It’s filled with bitterness, vendettas, and wickedness. Those who have opposed me in Edo State are cruel, very wicked, and filled with jealousy and envy because they cannot match the accomplishments we’ve made in the past eight years.
“But what’s important is to focus on the people to improve Nigeria, as the suffering is excessive. We are privileged to make a difference, so let’s focus on issues, not vendettas.
In his final remarks, Obaseki emphasized the importance of bureaucratic reform and ensuring the well-being of both the people and civil servants in the state.
“Reforming the bureaucracy is a priority. We focused on the people and the civil servants,” he added.
