De-Patriot News Desk
The Edo State Government has dismissed recent allegations by the factional chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Anthony Aziegbemi, describing his comments on the operations of the state’s Tender Board as “misleading” and “not grounded in fact.”
In a statement signed by the Chief press Secretary the the governor, Mr Fred Itua, the government said it had observed a disturbing pattern of misinformation from certain political actors aimed at misrepresenting the achievements and administrative processes of the current administration under Governor Monday Okpebholo.
According to the statement, the remarks attributed to Mr. Aziegbemi reflect “fundamental gaps in understanding basic governance and procurement procedures,” particularly his assertions regarding the structure and function of the Tender Board.
The government emphasized that the Tender Board is a statutory institution governed by clear provisions under Nigeria’s procurement laws and does not operate subject to political interpretations.
“For clarity, every ministry in Edo State has a legally constituted Tenders Board consisting of the Commissioner, Permanent Secretary, and Directors,” the statement explained.
“These bodies evaluate and approve contracts within their approved thresholds. Approvals beyond ministry limits are handled by the State Executive Council the apex Tenders Board comprising the Governor, Deputy Governor, Secretary to the State Government, and all Commissioners.”
The government noted that this structure mirrors what is obtainable in other states across the federation, stressing that Mr. Aziegbemi’s comments “misrepresent an established and transparent process.”
The statement also addressed what it described as the previous administration’s “questionable priorities,” citing the demolition of the historic Central Hospital in Benin City and its replacement with the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA).
The government argued that the decision to dismantle a century-old public health facility “remains one of the clearest examples of governance choices that placed private interests above public welfare.”
It further rejected recent claims circulated by the PDP regarding supposed legacy projects such as an “Agricultural Hub,” “Tayo Akpata Education Hub,” and “free WiFi hotspots,” describing them as “unverifiable initiatives that delivered little to no measurable value to citizens.”
Reaffirming its commitment to transparency and service delivery, the government said the Okpebholo administration has focused on practical, people-centered development across key sectors.
“Road rehabilitation is ongoing across communities. Healthcare facilities are being strengthened, not demolished. Schools are receiving meaningful investments, and civil servants are being accorded dignity and respect,” the statement added.
The government maintained that its governing philosophy prioritizes real impact over publicity-driven projects and assured citizens that no amount of political commentary would derail the state’s development trajectory.
“Edo people deserve leadership built on substance, not propaganda,” it stated. “This administration remains committed to truth, accountability, and measurable progress.”
Discover more from DE-PATRIOT
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.