Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Tuesday received the report and resolutions of a five-man committee set up to investigate the state’s stake in the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) and the Radisson Hotel projects, and also swore in Mr Chris Okaigben as a commissioner.
Receiving the report at Government House, Benin City, Governor Okpebholo assured that the findings would be fully implemented, disclosing that the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) would be invited to further examine 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 has significant stakes in both investments.
“I want to appreciate and thank members of the committee for a thorough job because the issues surrounding MOWAA and Radisson Hotel are disturbing to the people of Edo State. If the previous administration had done well, 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 saying the state has no stake in it. That is totally unacceptable. I will work with your recommendations and forward them to the relevant authorities to investigate what truly happened. 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 has 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 if this is how businesses are conducted in Nigeria,” he said.
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 gave the mandate about a month ago following observed discrepancies in the ownership structure of the two projects.
“A five-man committee was constituted. We immediately commenced work, obtained the necessary documents, and the facts are now clearly documented in resolutions and outcomes which we are submitting 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 responsibilities 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, praising 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.
In attendance, were 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.
