Abuja: Minister Nyesom Wike has advised Gov. Monday Okpebholo of Edo against using his energy and resources to probe his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. Wike, who was visiting the state, emphasized that the governor should focus on the development of Edo instead.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Wike made this statement through his spokesman, Mr. Lere Olayinka, highlighting that probing the former governor would not yield any meaningful results. Wike advised Okpebholo to allocate his time and the state's resources toward developmental objectives for the people of Edo.
Wike remarked, "If there is someone who would have encouraged Okpebholo to probe and prosecute Obaseki, that person should be me. However, what I suffered in ensuring that he returned for a second term and how he paid me back is now in the past. We must pass through this process in life, move on for the development of Edo."
He further urged the governor not to pursue any investigation against Obaseki, sharing his personal experience of what he went through. Wike recounted, "If it were to be his power, you wouldn't be here, but God has told him, 'you don't have it and I have given it to whom I want to give it to.'"
Additionally, Wike apologized to Sen. Adams Oshiomhole, a former governor of the state, for past actions that may have caused him distress due to support for Obaseki. He publicly acknowledged the hurt caused, stating, "I know how pained you are and what you passed through; I know it was like a humiliation to you. I was part of it because I humiliated you while supporting Obaseki."
Wike concluded by advising that Obaseki and his team should handle their issues independently, allowing Gov. Okpebholo to concentrate on the progress and development of Edo State.
The News Agency of Nigeria also reported that Wike's visit to Edo was intended for the inauguration of the newly constructed Edo Line Terminal in Benin, part of the second phase of the Benin Central Bus Terminal. However, the event was cancelled due to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.