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Outgoing Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has disclosed that his administration is leaving an outstanding debt of nearly N27 billion to fund ongoing projects and state obligations.

He raised concerns about alleged spending by the incoming All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, claiming it borrowed between N2 billion and N5 billion to finance the new governor’s inauguration.

At the inauguration of a 10-member caretaker committee for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Benin City, Obaseki pointed to what he described as lavish spending, attributing it to an attempt by the APC to gain public favour.

“In this holiday period, they will want to spend as much money as possible to confuse the people,” he remarked. “They have started blowing it and have borrowed money for the inauguration, which is going to cost them N2 to N5 billion.”

Obaseki, who dissolved his cabinet before the November 12 inauguration, assured PDP members of his continued loyalty and commitment to the party, promising he would remain available to offer advice.

The governor expressed determination to support efforts aimed at reclaiming the party’s alleged “stolen mandate” from the APC following the party’s defeat in the September 21 governorship election, where APC’s Senator Monday Okpebholo emerged victorious.

“We will get our stolen mandate back for the sake of Nigeria,” Obaseki affirmed, stressing that the fight is crucial for the nation’s democratic integrity. “This fight is not for our candidate but for the people of Nigeria and our nation’s democracy.”

PDP candidate Asue Ighodalo echoed Obaseki’s sentiments, calling on party members to prepare for a legal battle.

“We expect them to reply to our petition next week. Our lawyers are ready to respond, and we are standing firm as we navigate the journey to reclaim our stolen mandate,” he said.

With legal proceedings expected to intensify, the PDP has pledged a vigorous effort to overturn the election results and reclaim leadership in Edo State.