The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the state government, led by Governor Monday Okpebholo, are embroiled in a heated dispute over the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). The PDP has accused the governor of mismanaging the state’s finances, leading to a significant decline in revenue, while the government has dismissed the allegations as misleading and politically motivated.
PDP’s Allegations
At a press conference on Monday, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, Chairman of the PDP Caretaker Committee in Edo State, claimed that the state’s monthly IGR has plummeted from approximately N8 billion in October 2024, during the final days of the previous administration, to a mere N3 billion under Governor Okpebholo’s leadership. Aziegbemi attributed this decline to the activities of non-state actors allegedly employed by the governor to collect revenues, which are reportedly being diverted into private bank accounts instead of the state treasury.
The PDP chairman further alleged that the state lost N1.3 billion in revenue in February alone, with IGR dropping from N4.7 billion in January to N3.4 billion in February. He criticized the governor for failing to fulfill his campaign promise of providing a N500 million monthly subvention to Ambrose Alli University (AAU), citing the revenue shortfall as the primary reason.
Government’s Response
In a swift rebuttal, Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Okpebholo, stated that the allegations are unfounded and part of a political smear campaign. He emphasized that the government is implementing structural reforms in the transport and revenue sectors to eliminate multiple taxation and illegal toll collection. Itua also revealed that the state has engaged Atalakpa Recovery Concept Limited as an enforcement compliance consultant to ensure transparent and lawful revenue collection.
The Edo State Internal Revenue Service (EIRS) also denied the PDP’s claims, asserting that the state’s IGR has remained stable, averaging N10 billion monthly. Courage Eboigbe, Head of Corporate Communications at EIRS, described the PDP’s figures as “dubious, deliberately misleading, and dishonest.” He added that the revenue service is committed to tackling illegal revenue collection and urged the public to report any suspicious activities.
Political Implications
The war of words between the PDP and the state government highlights the deepening political tensions in Edo State. Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office in November 2024, has faced criticism from opposition parties over his administration’s handling of state finances. The PDP’s allegations come amid growing concerns about the state’s ability to meet its financial obligations, including funding for education and infrastructure projects.
Meanwhile, the government’s insistence on reforms and transparency suggests a commitment to addressing long-standing issues in revenue collection. However, the conflicting narratives from both sides have left many residents questioning the true state of Edo’s finances.
As the debate over Edo State’s IGR continues, the focus remains on whether Governor Okpebholo’s administration can deliver on its promises of economic stability and growth. With both sides digging in their heels, the coming months will be critical in determining the trajectory of the state’s financial health and political landscape.
For now, the people of Edo State await concrete actions and results, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes their welfare and the state’s development.