The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration of creating a hostile investment climate by chasing away investors and moving high‑profile projects into legal and anti‑graft investigations, a stance the party says undermines economic growth.
In a statement issued in Benin City, the PDP alleged that the state government has actively dragged investments to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the courts, discouraging credible capital inflow. The party linked this approach to the controversy over the Radisson Hotel and similar high‑value projects, arguing that such cases should be resolved transparently rather than pursued through criminal or civil suits that risk sending negative signals to would‑be investors.
The opposition party said the government’s focus on litigation and “politically driven” investigations has diminished confidence among existing and prospective partners, and could chill broader economic activity in the state. In their view, consistent legal and political tussles over investment deals including historic project valuations, alleged mismanagement and public accusations are tantamount to a disincentive for long‑term commitments by the private sector.
The PDP linked its criticisms to what it sees as broader political antagonism in Edo, where former governor Obaseki’s infrastructure legacies — from power projects to tourism‑oriented facilities — have become focal points of public contention. The party has called on the government to adopt a more investor‑friendly approach and refrain from what it terms adversarial tactics that risk economic setbacks.
Meanwhile, the Okpebholo administration continues to defend its actions as part of governance and accountability, insisting that controversial deals require scrutiny to ensure public funds are protected and properly deployed. Both sides remain entrenched in their positions as the state’s political and economic discourse unfolds ahead of future elections.
