Senator Monday Okpebholo, the APC gubernatorial candidate in Edo State, is under fire for allegedly diverting federal aid intended for Edo Central Senatorial District.
In December, the Federal Government allocated five trailer loads of rice and N3 billion to Okpebholo for distribution as part of an empowerment program. The aid was to be distributed across Edo Central’s LGAs, with each LGA receiving a trailer load of rice. The N3 billion was earmarked for local initiatives to support the community and alleviate economic hardship.
However, reports emerged that Okpebholo had retained the entire allocation, disregarding the intended distribution. Instead of using the rice and funds to benefit the local population, they have been kept in storage and are now being used for Okpebholo’s election campaign.
This scandal has sparked outrage, with accusations that Okpebholo is using federal aid to manipulate voters. As the governorship election approaches, Okpebholo has attempted to present the diverted resources as his contributions, seeking to leverage them for electoral gain....[CONTINUE READING HERE ▶▶]
Local leaders and voters in Edo Central are expressing anger over the misappropriation. One leader said, “The resources were meant to support and uplift our community. It is unacceptable for Okpebholo to withhold these benefits and now use them as a campaign tool.”
Residents are urged to accept the aid but reject Okpebholo’s candidacy, with leaders emphasizing that it should not be seen as a personal gift from a candidate who has demonstrated a lack of integrity.
