Okpebholo: A fraudulent mindset

By John Mayaki

“When you invest money into road construction, I have seen several governors do that and recoup their money. If I were him (Governor Godwin Obaseki), all I would need to do is put N10 million into it and then claim N20 million from the federal government. If the federal government knows they will not pay, why wouldn’t they come and do it themselves?”, Monday Okpebholo, APC Governorship candidate.

The above statement reflects a fraudulent mindset. If he can do this to the federal government, then he is capable of spending N5 million on a trip as governor (God forbid) and claiming N100 million from the state.

Okpebholo seems unaware that when a state claims reimbursement from the federal government for constructing a federal road, they are required to provide proof through contracts signed between the state and the contractor. Claiming a higher amount would be tantamount to falsifying records, which is criminal.

This reflects Okpebholo’s lack of credibility and character. He would likely do the same with state funds entrusted to him, to the detriment of the people. There’s no two ways about it.

Okpebholo should be reminded that nation-building is not an investment for profit – there’s no doubt about his acute vagueness when it comes to policy and disregard for proper financial procedures. His willingness to exploit government funds is telling.

I would recommend we consider a candidate with clear policies, ethical conduct, and a genuine commitment to nation-building without self-serving criminal motives. I recommend Dr. Asue Ighodalo and Barrister Osarodion Ogie come 21st of this month as Governor and Deputy Governor.