In a move that has sparked widespread criticism, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has reportedly approved the purchase of 60 brand-new Toyota Prado SUVs for government officials and politicians, costing the state a staggering ₦9.6 billion. Each vehicle, valued at ₦160 million, was procured despite the deepening economic hardship faced by citizens across the state and country.
Sources within the Edo State Government House revealed that the luxury vehicle purchases are part of an ongoing initiative to reward key players in the recent gubernatorial election. Okpebholo, whose electoral victory has been marred by allegations of manipulation and legal challenges, is said to have already spent over ₦5 billion on an exclusive fleet of armored SUVs for his personal use and that of senior officials within weeks of assuming office.
“This is a blatant display of fiscal irresponsibility,” said a government insider who spoke on condition of anonymity. “While citizens are grappling with unprecedented inflation, hunger, and unemployment, the government is prioritizing extravagant spending on luxury cars instead of addressing the pressing needs of the people. It is shameful and deeply insensitive.”
The decision to allocate nearly ₦20 billion to luxury vehicles in less than two months has drawn the ire of many Edo citizens, activists, and opposition figures. Critics argue that the funds could have been better utilized for critical infrastructure projects, healthcare, and educational reforms that directly benefit the populace.
“This administration is acting like a monarchy, squandering taxpayers’ money while the people suffer,” said a vocal opposition leader. “Edo State needs roads, healthcare facilities, and support for small businesses, not flashy SUVs for politicians. This reckless spending is an insult to the intelligence and patience of Edo people.”
Observers have also linked the spending spree to efforts to consolidate political loyalty within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). “It appears this is a strategy to placate party loyalists and political godfathers who contributed to Okpebholo’s contested electoral victory,” said a political analyst.
Civil society organizations and advocacy groups have called for an immediate halt to the administration’s lavish expenditures. They are urging Governor Okpebholo to refocus his administration’s priorities toward economic recovery, poverty alleviation, and infrastructure development.
“We strongly condemn this reckless use of public funds and demand transparency in the state’s financial management,” said a statement from the Coalition for Good Governance in Edo State. “The governor must redirect these resources to address the real challenges facing Edo citizens. Anything short of this is unacceptable.”
As the controversy continues to build, the governor’s office has yet to issue an official response. Meanwhile, the discontent among Edo citizens grows, raising questions about the future trajectory of the Okpebholo administration in the face of mounting public dissatisfaction.