Despite rigging claims, Obaseki’s govt asks Okpebholo to prepare to take over

The Edo State government said it has written to Governor-elect Senator Monday Okpebholo and his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to initiate the formation of a transition team.

This team is expected to interface with the transition team of the outgoing Governor Godwin Obaseki‘s administration.

This is contained in a letter dated October 10, 2024, wherein the Secretary to the State Government, Joseph Eboigbe, stated that setting up the team will allow both parties to begin meaningful discussions and exchange vital information, which will ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and continuity of governance.

Recall that Obaseki had back in July inaugurated a 20-member transition committee chaired by Eboigbe, to drive the smooth transition of power and knowledge to the next administration.

“I hope this message finds you in great spirits. As we prepare for the transition of power, we believe it is crucial to establish a smooth and effective collaboration between your team and our current administration.

“To facilitate this process, we invite you and your party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to initiate the formation of your transition team at your earliest convenience.

“Establishing this team will allow us to begin meaningful discussions and share vital information that will ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and continuity of governance,” the letter reads.

Eboigbe noted “We are committed to providing you with the necessary support and resources to make this transition as effective and efficient as possible. Consequently, 14th October 2024 is proposed for the inaugural meeting for members of both Transition Committees.”

“We look forward to your prompt response and to working closely with you and your team in the coming weeks. Together, we can set the foundation for a successful administration that meets the expectations of our constituents. Thank you for your attention,” he added.

The letter, which was said to have been received on behalf of Okpebholo by an admin secretary at the Secretariat of the Edo State Chapter of the APC Joy Oyere, has yet to be responded to.

Obaseki challenges Okpebholo’s victory

Recall that Governor Obaseki, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its candidate, Asue Ighodalo, have all rejected the outcome of the Edo Governorship election which produced the APC candidate as the winner.

The PDP has continued to hold protest rallies in some parts of the South-South State, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reverse its earlier declaration.

Last week, legal representatives of both the PDP and APC met at the INEC office in Benin to inspect materials used for the election including the voter register and Bimodal Verification Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) ahead of the tribunal.

However, the process was disrupted by violence and disagreements between the two parties.