By Omeiza Ajayi

Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Governor-elect of Edo State, has issued a stern warning to banks and financial institutions, cautioning them against granting last-minute loans or issuing financial instruments to the outgoing administration.

In a statement released on Wednesday in Abuja, Okpebholo raised concerns about reports of large-scale looting of government funds and properties by officials of the outgoing administration, led by Governor Godwin Obaseki, just weeks before the handover.

He urged security and anti-corruption agencies, including the Department of State Services (DSS), the Police, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to intervene and halt the alleged looting.

Okpebholo accused the Obaseki administration of taking dubious loans and alleged that some government officials were unlawfully appropriating state properties, including vehicles, furniture, and even palliatives like rice.

He expressed his dismay, saying, “It is shocking to hear widespread reports of looting of government funds and properties by officials of the outgoing administration from the Government House in Benin City. With barely a month to the handover, Governor Obaseki’s administration is still reportedly obtaining loans from banks and other institutions under questionable circumstances. We are also aware of the looting and vandalism of properties, including vehicles, furniture, gadgets, and even household items from government offices and residences.”

Okpebholo called on the EFCC, DSS, and Police to thoroughly investigate the allegations and ensure those responsible are held accountable. He also urged the protection of government assets from further vandalism.

The governor-elect warned financial institutions against engaging in any dealings that could jeopardize the state’s finances during this transitional period, particularly by issuing loans to the outgoing government.

“The Accountant General of Edo State is advised to uphold integrity in his duties, as this will be his lasting legacy. Any acts of impunity or theft by any person or institution during this time will face serious consequences,” Okpebholo added.

He emphasized that his incoming administration would closely monitor the situation until the very end of the current administration and stressed his zero-tolerance for corruption or unethical conduct.