Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced the formation of a 14-member State Assets Verification Committee to investigate the administration of former governor Godwin Obaseki.

The committee is tasked with auditing the state’s assets and liabilities as part of efforts to promote transparency and ensure good governance.

Fred Itua, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, revealed this in a statement issued on Sunday in Benin City.

He noted that the committee members would officially begin their work on Tuesday, November 26, when they will be inaugurated.

The committee is chaired by Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, with Anslem Ojezua serving as the deputy chairman and Frank Edebor as the secretary.

Other notable members include Prince Kassim Afegbua, Patrick Ikhariale, and Taiwo Akerele, alongside Patrick Idiake, Rasaq Bello-Osagie.

Also, Fredrick Unopah, Mrs. Abdallah Eugenia, Patrick Obahiagbon, Kenny Okojie, Mrs. Lyndsey Tes-Sorae, and Abass Braimoh.

Additionally, the governor emphasized that the committee’s work is essential for setting Edo State on a path of sustainable development and responsible leadership.

According to the statement, the previous administration under Godwin Obaseki had failed to provide a comprehensive database of the state’s assets and liabilities, despite repeated demands for accountability.

The limited information presented by the Obaseki administration, according to Governor Okpebholo, left many critical questions unanswered regarding the management of public resources.

Governor Okpebholo noted that this move aligns with his campaign pledge to promote probity, accountability, and transparency in governance.

The committee, he said, consists of esteemed individuals from Edo State, and have expertise and commitment to the state’s progress.

Dr. Ernest Umakhihe, the chairman of the committee, is expected to lead the team in conducting a thorough examination of the state’s resources, financial obligations, and the overall state of affairs inherited from the previous administration.