The recent scenes of widespread flooding in Benin City have once again brought to the fore a troubling question: What happened to the $150 million spent on flood control by the immediate-past administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki?
The floods, which left many roads impassable and homes submerged, have caused untold hardship for residents. Yet, what is most distressing is that this calamity comes on the heels of Obaseki’s public declaration in June 2023 that his administration had committed over $150 million—approximately ₦225 billion—to tackle erosion and flooding in the state capital.
Despite this colossal sum, flooding in Benin City has not only persisted but has worsened. This disconnect between expenditure and outcome demands transparency and accountability.
Ironically, some supporters of the former governor have been quick to post videos online, mocking the current administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo over the recent floods. But in doing so, they have unwittingly reminded the public of the abysmal legacy their principal left behind.
Governor Okpebholo assumed office less than eight months ago. It is simply disingenuous to blame the present administration for a problem rooted in years of neglect. What is clear to all is that Obaseki had eight years—ample time—to make meaningful progress on flood control. Instead, he pursued politically motivated projects while sidelining critical infrastructure.
During the administration of Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, the Benin City Storm Water Master Plan was a bold and holistic attempt to address erosion and flooding. Rather than consolidate on those gains, Obaseki abandoned many of the projects, prioritised partnerships, MoUs, and white elephant projects such as the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA) and the Radisson Hotel initiative.
Today, Edo people are paying the price. Properties have been damaged. Roads have collapsed. And the city is, quite literally, under water.
In contrast, the Okpebholo administration has already begun taking visible steps: rehabilitating major roads, constructing side drains, reclaiming erosion-prone areas like the Upper Uteh–Temboga axis, and expanding critical city arteries. These efforts are commendable, but they beg the question: Why was this not done earlier, and what happened to the billions already spent?
The demand is simple. Former Governor Obaseki must come clean. If $150 million was spent on flood control, where are the projects? Who were the contractors? What deliverables were met?
This demand for accountability is not borne out of political bitterness but a civic responsibility to ensure that those who manage public funds are held to account.
The alleged mismanagement of the flood control fund is part of a broader pattern. From the much-hyped EdoBEST programme, where billions were spent despite the absence of new school infrastructure or mass teacher recruitment, to the controversial civil service reforms and the perceived decay of state-owned tertiary institutions, Obaseki’s record has left many disappointed.
If Edo must move forward, there must be an honest reckoning with the past. The people deserve to know the truth. Accountability is not an option—it is a necessity.
This matter must not be swept under the rug. The former governor owes Edo people clear, verifiable answers.
And so, the question remains: Where is the $150 million flood control fund, Godwin Obaseki?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Owaen Fred Itua is the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State.
