CurrentReport Blog The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a bold challenge to the immediate past governor, Godwin Obaseki, promising a reward of N50 million if he can walk freely on the streets of Benin City and receive a rousing welcome from residents.
Prince Kassim Afegbua, a party chieftain and member of the newly inaugurated Edo State Assets Verification Committee, made the announcement during a press briefing at the Government House in Benin City. The briefing followed the inauguration of the committee by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
APC Responds to Allegations by PDP
Afegbua dismissed recent criticisms from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), accusing them of spreading misinformation about the policies of the barely two-week-old APC administration.
He specifically addressed claims that the Okpebholo-led government had shut down the e-governance platform introduced by the previous administration. “What they called e-governance is actually e-corruption,” Afegbua alleged, adding that the new administration has faced challenges accessing credible information from the platform.
He also refuted allegations that APC thugs had invaded the PDP secretariat, calling the accusations baseless. “We are too preoccupied with rebuilding Edo State to focus on a humbled opposition party that was resoundingly defeated at the last election,” he stated.
Defense of the Assets Verification Committee
Afegbua defended the establishment of the Edo State Assets Verification Committee, noting that such an exercise is standard practice worldwide when transitioning governments. He criticized the previous administration for its lack of transparency and pledged that the current government would ensure accountability and progress for Edo State.
A Challenge to Obaseki
In a provocative statement, Afegbua called on the PDP to invite former Governor Obaseki to participate in a public street walk in Benin City, with a promise of N50 million if he receives a warm reception from residents. “Let us see who the Edo people will embrace,” he challenged.
Afegbua also accused Obaseki of orchestrating attacks on the APC through hired operatives but assured that such tactics would not distract the party from delivering on its promises to the people of Edo State.
The APC reiterated its commitment to implementing people-oriented policies that address the state’s developmental challenges. “The steps we have taken so far have endeared us to the hearts of Edo people,” Afegbua said, expressing confidence in the administration’s ability to deliver credible projects.
