Outgoing Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki recently stated that he is willing to submit himself to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) if the agency wishes to investigate his governance.
Speaking in Abuja at the EdoBEST National Results-Sharing Session—a showcase of his eight-year achievements, particularly in education—Obaseki expressed confidence about his administration, emphasizing that he is unafraid of EFCC scrutiny and would readily cooperate if summoned.
Obaseki highlighted his transparency in governance, dismissing any allegations of wrongdoing. Reflecting on his accomplishments, he cited significant reforms and successes, especially within Edo’s education sector.
He criticized political opponents for circulating “silly petitions” in an attempt to tarnish his legacy, describing them as “full of bitterness, vendetta, and wickedness.” According to Obaseki, his adversaries are “very wicked people, very jealous, and envious” because they cannot rival the achievements made in Edo over the last eight years.
Discussing potential post-tenure legal actions, Obaseki reiterated that he has no fear of the EFCC. He stated, “Why should I have fears? What is important is focus. I ignored the noise and concentrated on what I felt mattered, and today, you can see the results.” He described political threats as mere distractions, focusing instead on the enduring needs of Edo’s people. “If the EFCC calls, I can even hand myself over. I have nothing to hide,” he affirmed, adding that opponents resort to petty vendettas instead of addressing Nigeria’s pressing issues.
As Obaseki prepares to leave office, he feels proud of the legacy he is leaving behind, something he believes is “rare in the history of Edo State.” He emphasized the establishment of “legacy projects” and a people-centered approach, remarking, “We focused on the things that matter most to Edo people, implemented reforms, and scaled them effectively.” His government made strides in education reform, going beyond theory to practical changes. “Edo has shown how it can be done,” Obaseki stated, noting that their educational initiatives are data-driven and have led to over 400,000 children enrolled in the reformed system.
Obaseki recently inaugurated a technical college, redesigned to teach practical skills in areas like catering, mechanics, and construction, to better prepare students for the workforce and reduce the appeal of risky migration. “What we have done is train people for life, not just for certificates,” Obaseki explained. His goal, he said, was to align education with societal needs, allowing students to meaningfully apply their knowledge.
At the event, Obaseki also voiced opposition to the Nigerian Academy of Letters’ suggestion that unity schools be transferred to state management. He supported instead the idea of turning unity schools into elite institutions, as envisioned by keynote speaker Prof. Olubayi Olubayi. Obaseki advocated for nurturing Nigeria’s most talented students, regardless of origin, within such institutions. “They don’t have to be from one region; we should treat them specially,” he suggested, arguing that this elite training would foster future leaders and innovators.
Drawing a comparison to India’s limited but highly effective elite schools, Obaseki stressed that unity schools should be high-performing hubs with strong private and public sector support, prioritizing educational excellence over administrative control. “The important thing is not ownership but output,” he concluded, emphasizing the need to deliver world-class education and policy-oriented training for Nigeria’s top students.
