The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, of enticing PDP councillors in the state with N2 million to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to Chris Nehikhare, the Publicity Secretaty of the PDP caretaker fommittee in the state, the governor “has summoned all councillors from the 18 local councils of Edo State, in a desperate attempt to woo them with N2m each to decamp to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“We are reliably informed that the meeting is holding right now at the Government House, Benin City, the Edo State capital.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the reckless use of state resources to purchase support and loyalty, while critical sectors of the state remain in dire need of government’s intervention, from security to public safety and order, revenue generation, education, and healthcare, among others.”
The PDP said the security crisis in the state deteriorated, adding that the activities of thugs and non-state actors who have continued to harass, intimidate and extort citizens of the state have remained unabated, leaving the majority of residents in fear and causing a drastic fall in revenue generation.
Related Articles: PDP slams Okpebholo, says Governor must ‘Get His Act Together’
“The health sector under Okpebholo’s watch is in a state of complete neglect. Health facilities, including the Edo Specialist Hospital, are struggling with a lack of essential medical supplies, making basic healthcare inaccessible to the people.
“The education sector has also suffered from his administration’s failure, ranking among the lowest in budgetary allocation and priority. As a result, students are learning less, and the system is deteriorating at an alarming rate.
“Yet, Okpebholo’s primary focus is on using state resources to woo councillors to defect to his party. This is not only shameful and disappointing, but totally unacceptable.
“Rather than wasting resources on buying political support and loyalty, we urge him to channel these resources into meaningful projects that will positively impact the people of the state during his short period at Dennis Osadebey Avenue,” the party said.
