Kehinde Fajobi
Edo State’s outgoing governor, Godwin Obaseki, has expressed his willingness to cooperate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) if they seek his presence regarding his two terms in office.
Obaseki made the statement during the EdoBEST National Results-Sharing Session in Abuja, celebrating his administration’s progress in education.
Addressing the possibility of an EFCC inquiry, he said, “I’m not afraid of the EFCC. Why should I be? If the EFCC calls on me, I will hand myself over; I have nothing to hide.”
He attributed his administration’s achievements to staying focused amid distractions, adding, “I came into office and ignored the noise, concentrating on what I felt was important, and today you can see the results.”
Obaseki criticised opposition parties, especially the All Progressives Congress (APC), for prioritising “unnecessary and silly petitions” over the needs of Nigerians.
He described his opponents in Edo State as “bitter” and “full of vendetta,” attributing their criticisms to jealousy of his administration’s successes.
Reflecting on his tenure, Obaseki said he is leaving office “with his head held high,” citing lasting achievements in the education sector.
He noted that over 400,000 children were enrolled in school during his administration, with each child’s information documented.
He also highlighted the newly rebuilt technical college, which provides vocational training in trades like catering, mechanics, and construction to equip young people with practical skills.
Obaseki also voiced opposition to a proposal to transfer unity schools to state governments, advocating instead for private and public sector management to ensure they have resources to meet high standards.
“Unity schools should cater to exceptional students from across the country, equipping them to lead in policy-making and innovation,” he said, adding that such schools need substantial resources and a focus on quality outcomes, not just ownership.