Government, as Abraham Lincoln famously noted, is a system “of the people, by the people, and for the people.” Yet, in Nigeria—and particularly in Edo State—transitions in government often descend into contentious disputes over properties. These episodes expose the cracks in our governance structures, raising critical questions about public officials’ accountability, ethical leadership, and the allure of material accumulation.
The ongoing controversy over government properties in Edo State underscores the urgency of these issues. It must be emphasized that public officials are custodians, not proprietors, of public assets. These properties are meant to facilitate governance, not serve as spoils of office. Mismanagement or the unauthorized retention of government assets after a tenure erodes public trust and undermines the essence of public service.
Recent developments in Edo State offer a troubling case study. Governor Monday Okpebholo, in his quest to recover government properties, must tread cautiously to avoid the perception of political vendettas. Allegations have surfaced that some members of his Assets Recovery Committee—tasked with ensuring accountability—may have unresolved accounts regarding government assets and liabilities to render. If left unaddressed, such contradictions could cast a shadow over the administration’s integrity.
For instance, the actions of the impeached Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, have drawn scrutiny. He stands accused of retaining vehicles and other government properties, further fueling suspicions about how public assets are managed during and after transitions. However, these accusations must not serve as a smokescreen to obscure broader issues within the system or be wielded as weapons for political retribution.
The Need for Institutional Integrity
The root of the problem lies in systemic inefficiencies and a lack of structured transition protocols. A comprehensive inventory of government properties at the close of each administration’s tenure is not just prudent but essential. Without such processes, transitions become chaotic, leaving room for allegations, counter-allegations, and outright misuse of public assets.
As Aristotle aptly observed, “Good governance depends on good laws.” Edo State, and indeed Nigeria, must institutionalize clear, enforceable laws governing the management of public assets during transitions. Without this, the cycle of mistrust will continue, and public confidence in governance will further erode.
A Warning Against Witch Hunts
Governor Monday Okpebholo must be reminded that the recovery of state assets is not an opportunity to settle political scores. Any attempts to transform this effort into a witch hunt will backfire, undermining his credibility and the broader trust in his administration. As Mahatma Gandhi wisely stated, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Public service is not a stage for vendettas but a responsibility to act in the public’s best interest.
To avoid perceptions of bias, the governor must ensure that the Assets Recovery Committee’s activities are grounded in transparency and fairness. If substantiated, allegations against those within the committee must be addressed with the same vigor as other cases. Justice cannot be selective.
Prioritizing the People Over Wealth
However, some public officials’ undue focus on material possessions betrays a lack of foresight. True leadership is not defined by the accumulation of transient wealth but by the impact made in service to the people. As the Bible warns in Ecclesiastes 5:10, “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This, too, is meaningless.” Edo State’s leaders, past and present, would do well to reflect on this wisdom.
Governor Okpebholo’s administration has a unique opportunity to set a higher standard. It can model governance prioritising public interest over personal ambition by pursuing asset recovery with integrity, devoid of unnecessary drama, and based solely on verified facts.
The Role of Civil Society
Citizens must also play their part by holding leaders accountable. The public must demand more than lip service to transparency and integrity. As Edmund Burke famously warned, “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.” Civil society, the media, and ordinary citizens must insist on governance that reflects the highest ethical standards.
Conclusion
The controversy surrounding government properties in Edo State reveals a systemic issue: the absence of structured, accountable transitions. However, it also presents an opportunity for reform. Governor Okpebholo must lead reasonably and avoid the temptation of politicizing asset recovery efforts. His administration must demonstrate that governance is genuinely for the people, setting a precedent for others.
The question remains: Will leaders embrace this call to selflessness, or will the fleeting allure of material wealth continue to overshadow their higher purpose? Time, as always, will reveal the answer.
Deacon Darlington Okpebholo Ray is a Journalist, Publisher/Editor-in-Chief of Truth Live News Int’l, and a Socio-Political Activist writes from London, England