The reinstated deputy governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu has raised the alarm over alleged plans by his principal, Governor Godwin Obaseki to steal money from the state treasury.

Shaibu made this disclosure on Friday in a press briefing in Benin City, saying he has an offer of a financial reward to the tune of N1million to anyone who has information concerning alleged looting of government property as the administration winds down.

He added that he had evidence to back the alleged looting in some quarters and last-minute borrowing from financial institutions.
He also called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant agencies to look into the alleged misappropriation of funds meant for projects in the ministry of roads and bridges, ongoing Radisson Hotel project and last-minute appointments by the outgoing administration.

“I have received disturbing reports of banks and other financial institutions, granting last-minute loans to Governor Godwin Obaseki. This is alarming, and not in good faith,” he was quoted by the PUNCH.

He continued: “Against that backdrop, I am issuing a strong warning to banks and financial institutions not to grant any loans or issue financial instruments to Governor Obaseki or any official of the state government in whatever capacity or office.

“Also, information at my disposal shows there are last-minute plans to siphon state’s fund using NGOs as a decoy, under the guise of supporting such organisations’ projects and activities.
“These actions undermine our state’s financial stability and potential mortgage of the future of Edo State. I dissociate myself and my office from any such dealings.”

He said there were reports of indiscriminate and clandestine appointments into the civil and public service with outrageous grade levels.