The Edo State Government has explained the reason behind the delay in payment of contractors engaged by the administration of former Governor Godwin Obaseki, saying it is currently verifying projects before releasing funds.
The clarification was given by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, during a press briefing in Benin City.
According to him, the state government is not in a hurry to settle the contractors until all projects executed under the previous administration are properly reviewed and confirmed. He said the verification process is necessary to ensure transparency, accountability, and value for money.
Afegbua noted that while payments to contractors handling projects under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration are being made regularly based on certified work done, inherited contracts from the previous government must undergo scrutiny before payment approval.
He added that Governor Okpebholo ensures that funds are available before initiating new road projects, a practice he said helps avoid debt accumulation and financial mismanagement.
The commissioner also spoke on the government’s ongoing security and anti crime measures, including the demolition of buildings linked to suspected cultists. He said the government would continue demolitions based on credible intelligence as part of efforts to curb criminal activities in the state.
Afegbua warned that the administration maintains a zero tolerance stance on cultism and related crimes, adding that individuals involved in internet fraud activities, commonly referred to as yahoo yahoo, would also face strict enforcement actions.
He further disclosed that investigations into recent violent incidents, including a ing at the University of Benin environment, are ongoing, with some suspects already arrested.
The government also announced the arrival of 50 Compressed Natural Gas buses to improve public transportation across Edo State. According to him, an additional 50 buses are expected, bringing the total to 100 units aimed at easing transportation challenges across all senatorial districts.
He said the buses would soon be deployed to the public to reduce transportation difficulties and improve mobility within the state.
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