PDP, Edo Govt Clash Over Alleged N4.2bn SUV Spending, Foreign Trips

Published: September 4, 2025

2 Min Read

PDP accuses Governor Okpebholo of reckless spending and abandoning governance
State government dismisses allegations as false, misleading, and politically motivated
Dispute deepens as both parties trade claims over workers’ welfare, insecurity, and appointments

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Edo State has accused Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration of squandering N4.2 billion of taxpayers’ money on luxury SUVs for commissioners while allegedly abandoning governance for foreign trips.

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PDP accuses Governor Okpebholo of reckless spending and abandoning governance State government dismisses allegations as false, misleading, and politically motivated Dispute deepens as both parties trade claims over workers’ welfare, insecurity, and appointments

In a statement signed by Chris Nehikhare, Publicity Secretary of the Caretaker Committee, the PDP claimed that each of the 28 vehicles procured cost N150 million, describing the move as reckless at a time of widespread economic hardship, insecurity, and stalled public services.

The party further alleged that the governor and his deputy, Hon Dennis Idahosa, had neglected state affairs by embarking on repeated trips abroad, leaving Edo in what it termed a leadership vacuum.

The opposition also faulted what it called a bloated executive council, pointing to the request for 28 commissioner-nominees, and accused the administration of ignoring urgent issues such as collapsing hospitals, underfunded schools, and worsening rural insecurity.

Reacting, the state government dismissed the allegations as falsehoods and propaganda. In a statement signed by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, the administration said the PDP’s claims were desperate attempts to mislead the public. He noted that the deputy governor remained in the state, actively discharging his duties, and stressed that Edo had one of the highest minimum wages in the country at N75,000.

The government argued that its political appointments were strategic and inclusive, designed to ensure competence and representation across senatorial districts.

Itua reaffirmed that Governor Okpebholo and his deputy were providing purposeful leadership, committed to accountability and effective service delivery.