Obaseki and Ighodalo Face Criticism Over Alleged Misuse of Local Government Funds

Obaseki and Ighodalo Face Criticism Over Alleged Misuse of Local Government Funds

Controversy has erupted in Edo State as Governor Godwin Obaseki faces serious allegations regarding the mismanagement of local government funds. According to recent reports, Obaseki, who has been stripped of control over ₦5.9 billion designated for the 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs), is reportedly engaging in dubious negotiations with LG Chairmen he appointed under questionable circumstances.

The core of the controversy revolves around attempts to leverage these funds for political gain ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial elections. The Supreme Court’s recent ruling granting local governments financial autonomy has significantly diminished Obaseki’s influence over the approximately ₦320 million allocated to each LGA. With over ₦5.9 billion having been distributed to the LGAs in July alone, Obaseki’s maneuvers are seen as an effort to channel these funds to support the PDP’s gubernatorial candidate, Asue Ighodalo.

Sources indicate that LG Chairmen have proposed a condition for Ighodalo: he must agree not to utilize at least 70% of the local government funds if elected. While Ighodalo appears willing to accept this condition, Obaseki’s resistance suggests a desire to retain control over these resources for his own political interests.

If these allegations are substantiated, they would mark a grave violation of trust, undermining the role of local governments intended to advance community development. Instead of focusing on genuine improvements for Edo citizens, the PDP’s actions are being criticized as politically motivated maneuvers. The APC New Media Directorate has condemned this alleged misuse of power and urges the electorate to demand transparency and reject such tactics.