Luxury SUVs spark political firestorm in Edo
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has accused the APC-led government of Governor Monday Okpebholo of spending a staggering ₦4.2 billion on luxury SUVs for newly nominated commissioners.
In a statement signed by PDP Publicity Secretary Chris Nehikhare, the party alleged that each vehicle cost ₦150 million and claimed the state is facing a historic expansion of its Executive Council—with 28 commissioner nominees, the most in the state’s history.
“Reckless spending amid hardship” — PDP
The PDP criticized the spending as wasteful, especially at a time when many Edo citizens are facing economic hardship, worsening insecurity, and decaying public services.
“While hospitals collapse, roads fall apart, and insecurity worsens, the state government is focused on SUVs and settling political IOUs,” Nehikhare said.
The statement also accused Governor Okpebholo and Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa of “abandoning” the state for foreign trips, leaving behind what the PDP called a “dangerous leadership vacuum.”
PDP lists mounting issues
The party raised concerns over delayed salaries, abandoned infrastructure projects, and rising insecurity—especially in farming areas like Uhunmwonde and Ovia North-East, where locals reportedly face frequent attacks.
“Farmers are fleeing, traders close early out of fear, and yet the priority is foreign trips and SUVs?” the PDP asked.
Edo government fires back: “It’s all lies”
In response, the state government denied all allegations, calling them “reckless, false, and politically motivated.”
Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, stated that Deputy Governor Idahosa is “very much in Edo” and actively performing his duties.
“At no time has the state been left without leadership. Governance here runs on systems, not propaganda,” he said.
High minimum wage, not high waste — govt says
The government defended its spending and political appointments, pointing out that Edo now pays one of Nigeria’s highest minimum wages at ₦75,000. It dismissed claims of financial recklessness, describing the appointments as “inclusive and strategic,” aimed at representing all senatorial districts.
“What the PDP calls bloated, we call effective service delivery,” Itua added.
Both sides dig in ahead of 2025 politics
With Edo State elections on the horizon and political tensions rising, this clash over spending could be a preview of more heated debates to come.
