Outgoing Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, Thursday said that he might face potential arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) once his tenure ends.
Speaking in Abuja at the EdoBEST National Results-Sharing Session, themed “EdoBEST: A Legacy of Re-engineering Education in Sub-Saharan Africa,” Obaseki shared his thoughts on his time in office and future plans.
The governor stated that if detained, he would use the time constructively, dedicating it to reflection and research.
He expressed confidence in his administration’s actions, pointing out that baseless petitions against him were filed out of what he described as “cruel and wicked” motives meant to harm him.
Reflecting on his administration’s legacy, Obaseki noted, “I will serve as a resource person after office and I’m going to give the cheapest services so far from lessons garnered in my eight years’ experience as governor. I hear that the EFCC will pick me next week after my tenure. Wherever they keep me, I’ll spend time doing research.”
Obaseki underscored the achievements of his administration, particularly its focus on initiatives benefiting the people of Edo State. “Why should I have fears? I just focused on what I believe in and today, you can see what has been achieved. What happens after that is not up to me,” he asserted, adding that he was undeterred by any “political witch-hunt” that may ensue.
Addressing the accusations against him, Obaseki stated, “They have written all sorts of silly petitions against me and that’s part of the challenge. In fact, I can even hand myself over, and if they call me, I don’t have anything to hide.” He attributed the complaints to “bitterness, vendetta, wickedness,” and described his opponents as “cruel, very wicked people” who have not matched his administration’s accomplishments.
Obaseki stressed the importance of focusing on development rather than personal grievances, saying, “What is important to us is to focus on our people in order to make Nigeria better because the suffering is too much. We have the advantage and privilege to make things happen.”
Commenting on his administration’s approach to education, he noted that Nigeria could meet global standards by emphasizing impactful teaching. Obaseki identified waste, theft, and corruption as obstacles to progress, rather than a lack of resources.
“What we spend money on many times are not necessary. You cannot expect to raise money if you haven’t put some of yours into it. You have to build trust and people have to believe in what you’re saying,” he explained.