Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday received the report and resolutions of a five-man committee constituted to investigate the state’s investment stakes in the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) and the Radisson Hotel projects. The governor also swore in Mr Chris Okaigben as a commissioner.
Receiving the report at Government House, Benin City, Governor Okpebholo assured that the committee’s findings would be fully implemented, disclosing that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would be invited to further investigate the issues raised.
The governor revealed that Edo State invested over ₦3.8 billion in the MOWAA project and more than ₦28 billion in the Radisson Hotel project, stressing that the state therefore holds significant stakes in both investments.
“I want to appreciate and thank members of the committee for a thorough job. The issues surrounding MOWAA and the Radisson Hotel are disturbing to the people of Edo State. If the previous administration had done the right thing, there would have been no need to set up this committee,” he said.
Governor Okpebholo explained that controversies surrounding the MOWAA project, including changes in its structure and nomenclature, made the investigation unavoidable.
“Edo State has spent over ₦3.8 billion on this project, yet some people are claiming that the state has no stake in it. That is totally unacceptable. I will act on your recommendations and forward them to the appropriate authorities to establish what truly transpired. We will also involve the EFCC,” he added.
Speaking on the Radisson Hotel project, the governor commended the committee for what he described as a thorough assignment, noting that claims suggesting Edo State holds only a 10 per cent stake despite investing over ₦28 billion were unacceptable.
“Our investment in this project is over ₦28 billion. We must invite the EFCC to step in and determine whether this is how business is conducted in Nigeria,” he stated.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, who led members of the committee to present the report, said the governor issued the mandate about a month ago following observed discrepancies in the ownership structure of the two projects.
“A five-man committee was constituted, and we immediately commenced work. We obtained all relevant documents, and the facts are now clearly outlined in the resolutions and findings which we are presenting to you today for prompt action,” the Speaker said.
The committee was chaired by the member representing Esan North-East Constituency I, Hon. Barr. Emankhu Isibor Addeh.
In a related development, Governor Okpebholo also swore in Mr Chris Okaigben as a commissioner, urging him to align his duties with the administration’s SHINE Agenda—Security, Healthcare, Infrastructure, Natural Resources and Agriculture, and Education.
Administering the oath of allegiance, the governor congratulated Okaigben on his appointment, describing him as an experienced politician whose loyalty and commitment are not in doubt.
“Our SHINE Agenda must guide your actions as we work to develop Edo State. You have been called upon to contribute your quota to the growth and development of the state, and we will support you to succeed in this assignment,” he said.
In his acceptance speech, the newly sworn-in commissioner described the appointment as an honour that comes with great responsibility. He praised Governor Okpebholo as a focused and determined leader who has redefined governance in Edo State through practical, people-oriented leadership.
He assured the governor of his total loyalty and commitment, pledging to give his best in service to the state.
The governor later presented a souvenir bearing the party’s symbol to the new commissioner.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq.; the Commissioner for Finance, Engr. Emmanuel Okoebor, members of the Edo State House of Assembly, and other members of the State Executive Council.
SIGNED:
Ebojele Akhere Patrick, PhD
Chief Press Secretary
Governor of Edo State