The political rivalry between Governor Monday Okpebholo and the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has intensified following a dispute over the construction of Temboga Road. The PDP has accused Okpebholo’s administration of falsely claiming credit for the completion of the 7.5km road, which it asserts was initiated and finished during the tenure of former Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Chris Nehikhare, the PDP Caretaker Committee’s Publicity Secretary, called Okpebholo’s actions “disingenuous” and misleading. He urged the new governor to focus on delivering on his own campaign promises rather than claiming credit for completed projects from the previous administration. Nehikhare emphasized that the road was fully constructed under Obaseki’s leadership, dismissing Okpebholo’s claims as misleading.
In response, Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, fired back, accusing the PDP of trying to rewrite history. He criticized the PDP’s failure to complete the road during its time in office and claimed that the new governor was merely following up on unfinished projects. Okpebholo’s camp reaffirmed his commitment to improving Edo State’s infrastructure and creating economic opportunities despite the criticisms.
The exchange highlights the ongoing tension between the two political factions as they vie for control over the narrative surrounding Edo State’s development projects.
