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Obaseki: EFCC Might Arrest Me Next Week, But I Have Nothing to Fear

Published by Tope Fakinlede on November 8th, 2024.

Obaseki: EFCC Might Arrest Me Next Week, But I Have Nothing to Fear

Godwin Obaseki

Godwin Obaseki, the outgoing governor of Edo State, has revealed that he has been informed the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) may arrest him once his tenure ends next week. Obaseki, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), will hand over the reins of government to Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC) on November 12.

Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during the EdoBEST National Results-Sharing Session, Obaseki expressed his readiness for whatever comes his way, including the potential EFCC arrest. “I’ve heard that the EFCC will come for me after my term ends. Wherever they take me, I’ll use the time to do some research,” he said.

Obaseki, who has been in office since 2016, also reflected on his legacy, emphasizing the accomplishments achieved during his administration. “We’ve done a lot in the state, and these will stand as part of our lasting legacy,” he said. “What will remain long after I leave office is the fact that we focused on the real needs of Edo people and worked to address them with concrete reforms.”

The governor also criticized the opposition in the state, calling it “cruel and wicked,” and reiterated that he has no fear of any EFCC investigation or arrest. “I’ve done nothing wrong. I’ve focused on my principles and the progress of the state. What happens after my tenure is out of my control,” he said.

He further expressed his indifference to what he called political attacks, stating, “They can continue their witch-hunt, but I won’t be intimidated. They’ve made baseless allegations against me, but I’m not concerned. If they want to take action, I’m not hiding anything.”

Obaseki attributed the opposition’s actions to bitterness and jealousy, accusing them of being envious of the progress made under his leadership. “Those who oppose me are motivated by cruelty, envy, and a desire to undermine our achievements in Edo over the past eight years. But our focus should be on the people and on making Nigeria a better place for all.”

The Edo State governorship election was concluded on September 22, with Monday Okpebholo of the APC emerging victorious with 291,667 votes. Asue Ighodalo, Obaseki’s preferred candidate from the PDP, finished second with 247,274 votes, and has vowed to challenge the result in court.