Edo State’s outgoing governor, Godwin Obaseki, hinted on Thursday that he may be arrested by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) after his term ends, SAVANNAH NEWSNOW REPORTS.
During the EdoBEST National Results-Sharing Session in Abuja, Obaseki discussed his tenure and future plans, mentioning that if arrested, he intends to use the time for reflection and research. He remains confident in his administration’s decisions, attributing the baseless petitions against him to malicious intentions.
Looking back on his time in office, Obaseki mentioned his intention to continue serving as a resource after his tenure, offering his services at the lowest cost, drawing from his eight years of experience as governor.
He also mentioned the possibility of being taken in by the EFCC the following week, stating his readiness to conduct research wherever he may be held. Obaseki highlighted his administration’s accomplishments, especially those that benefited the people of Edo State, expressing no fear about the future, confident in the achievements made and undeterred by potential political persecution.
Addressing the accusations against him, Obaseki stated, “They have written all sorts of silly petitions against me and that’s part of the challenge. In fact, I can even hand myself over, and if they call me, I don’t have anything to hide.” He attributed the complaints to “bitterness, vendetta, wickedness,” and described his opponents as “cruel, very wicked people” who have not matched his administration’s accomplishments.
Obaseki stressed the importance of focusing on development rather than personal grievances, saying, “What is important to us is to focus on our people in order to make Nigeria better because the suffering is too much. We have the advantage and privilege to make things happen.”
Commenting on his administration’s approach to education, he noted that Nigeria could meet global standards by emphasizing impactful teaching. Obaseki identified waste, theft, and corruption as obstacles to progress, rather than a lack of resources.
“What we spend money on many times are not necessary. You cannot expect to raise money if you haven’t put some of yours into it. You have to build trust and people have to believe in what you’re saying,” he explained.
