The Edo APC Diaspora Executive Committee has issued a formal communiqué addressing emerging concerns surrounding the recent foreign engagements of former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, as well as the current administration’s relationship with Edo citizens in the diaspora.
According to the Committee, former Governor Obaseki’s ongoing tour across Europe—where he has been meeting with Edo indigenes—raises significant questions. The group noted that during his time in office, Obaseki never embarked on any diaspora outreach or appreciation tour, nor did he consult with Edo citizens abroad on matters affecting their welfare.
They also recalled that several diaspora members suffered major setbacks during his administration, including the demolition of houses built with years of hard-earned resources. Many of those affected, the Committee stated, were diaspora citizens whose properties were destroyed without recourse, making the governor’s sudden interest in the diaspora community puzzling.
The communiqué further criticised the leadership of the Edo State Diaspora Commission, expressing disappointment in its perceived inefficiency. The Committee stated that their initial objections to the appointment of the Commission’s Director General have now been validated. A competent and proactive Commission, they argued, should have cultivated strong partnerships with European authorities and diaspora organisations, which would have ensured proper oversight and accountability concerning the former governor’s activities abroad.
The Executive Committee also expressed dissatisfaction with the current stance of Governor Monday Okpebholo toward the APC diaspora community. Despite the significant support many diaspora members provided during his 2024 campaign, the relationship between his administration and Edo indigenes abroad has reportedly deteriorated. They noted that individuals who played pivotal roles in his electoral victory have been sidelined, while key appointments—such as that of Dr. Loretta Oduware Ogboro-Okor—were made without adequate consultation with diaspora stakeholders.
This disconnect, the Committee said, has created an environment that enables former Governor Obaseki to freely interface with diaspora communities without meaningful challenge or government-backed coordination.
The Edo APC Diaspora Committee is calling on Governor Okpebholo to urgently rebuild trust and strengthen engagement with the diaspora community. They urged the administration to acknowledge the sacrifices and contributions of APC diaspora members and to improve coordination between the government and diaspora institutions. They also called for an immediate review of the Diaspora Commission to restore confidence in its leadership and performance.
The Committee reaffirmed its commitment to the unity, progress and welfare of Edo people worldwide, pledging to continue championing accountability and good governance both within and beyond Nigeria.
Signed:
Bishop Desmond Osazuwa Amasihohu
Director General & Apex Leader, Edo APC
Diaspora Exco Group
Chief Tony Nigro Erhabor
Deputy Director General, Edo APC
Diaspora Exco Group & Apex Leader, UK & Ireland
Dr. Dennis Osahon Aikoriogie
Secretary General, Edo APC Diaspora Exco Group, USA
Edo 2024 Governorship Candidate
