The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has advised the newly sworn-in Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, against launching an investigation into his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki. Instead, he urged the governor to concentrate on the development of the state.

Wike’s counsel came in response to earlier remarks by former Edo State Governor and current Senator representing Edo North, Adams Oshiomhole, who had encouraged Okpebholo to scrutinize Obaseki’s administration. Oshiomhole, who was once Obaseki’s political ally, fell out with him ahead of the 2020 gubernatorial election after publicly vowing to oppose his second-term bid as national chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Obaseki subsequently defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and, with significant support from Wike, secured re-election in 2020 without Oshiomhole’s backing. However, Obaseki and Wike later became political rivals, with Wike supporting Okpebholo and campaigning against Obaseki’s preferred candidate, Asue Ighodalo, in the 2024 governorship election.

During a recent event celebrating the Supreme Court's affirmation of Okpebholo’s election, Oshiomhole called on the new governor to revisit alleged financial irregularities under Obaseki, including questionable infrastructure projects and state investments.

“You now have time to examine the hotel project where billions in Edo funds were reportedly spent, despite claims that the state only has a minority stake,” Oshiomhole stated. “You must revisit those road projects that cost far more than those during my tenure.”

Responding to these calls, Governor Okpebholo announced his intention to set up a commission of inquiry to review his predecessor’s activities.

However, Wike, in a statement released Monday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications and Social Media, Lere Olayinka, cautioned against such a move. He argued that launching a probe would not only be unproductive but could also derail the government’s focus on development.

“If anyone had a reason to go after Obaseki, it should be me,” Wike said. “Despite what I endured to help him win a second term, I’ve chosen to let the past go. Pursuing this path will only distract from the real work ahead.”

Wike, who had been in Benin for the scheduled inauguration of the New Edo Line Terminal and the second phase of the Benin Central Bus Terminal — both canceled due to the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari — emphasized the importance of rising above personal grievances in governance.

He added, “I should be the one prosecuting Obaseki. But life has moved on. If it were up to him, Okpebholo wouldn’t be governor today. But God gives power to whom He wills.”

Addressing Oshiomhole directly, Wike publicly apologized for past political conflicts between them, acknowledging the difficulties the senator endured.

“Leader, I know the pain and humiliation you experienced. I was part of that and I publicly apologized for my role. Let’s move on and let them carry their burden. Focus on building Edo State—you’ll be amazed by what you can achieve,” he said.