Okpebholo, Obaseki trade words over recruitment of 4,000 teachers by Obaseki
Published By: Paul Dada
By Jethro Ibileke
A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC)’s transition committee in Edo State, Prince Kassim Afegbua, has warned about 4,000 teachers allegedly recruited by the outgoing administration of Mr Godwin Obaseki, to disregard their appointments.
Afegbua who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, described the development as an attempt to “overload the system and lay booby traps for the in-coming administration of Senator Monday Okpebholo.”
He added that it had further confirmed APC’s position that the EdoBest project was a hoax and not for the good of Edo people or its educational system.
According to him, Governor Obaseki used the project for his self-interest; playing with the future of our children.
He said: “The purported recruitment of 4,000 teachers by the out-going Governor is in bad faith.
“All through his active years as Chief Executive of Edo state, Governor Obaseki could not recruit any teacher to reinvigorate the educational interest of the state.
“We are however saddened by the sudden realization in the twilight of his administration that the educational sector now needs teachers.
“It is pertinent to alert the public and particularly those allegedly recruited as teachers to disregard the exercise and see it as another political ploy by Governor Obaseki, known for using EdoBest to allegedly defraud the citizens, the World Bank and other donor agencies.”
Afegbua who opined that Obaseki only used the project for personal self-aggrandisement and that of his cronies, reasoned that if he meant well for the state, he would have done the recruitment long before now.
He recalled that Obaseki “flagrantly discontinued on assumption of office in 2016” about 2,500 teachers employed by his predecessor, Adams Oshiomhole, at the twilight of his administration in 2016.
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“The incoming administration of Senator Okpebholo will follow due process in the recruitment of teachers which he consistently promised throughout his campaign period.
“Senator Okpebholo will not recruit teachers with a partisan mind but with a determination to make Edo state better for our children,” Afegbua stated.
Reacting to the allegation, the State Communication and Orientation and a member transition committee, Chris Nehikhare, denied recruiting teachers at the twilight of the outgoing administration.
He said Afegbua’s remarks highlight a lack of understanding of current political landscape.
He said: “It is both laughable and concerning to witness the recent comments made by Prince Kassim Afegbua, which seek to undermine the recruitment of dedicated teachers for Edo children. These educators are essential for advancing the transformative Edobest programme, which has made significant strides in improving educational standards in our state.
“It is important to remind Afegbua and his cohorts that, according to the Nigerian constitution, only one governor holds authority at any given time. Until November 12, they lack the power to influence policy decisions. Hence, their attempts to dictate educational policy are not only premature but also legally unfounded.
“The qualified teachers who have recently been engaged were not appointed on a whim; they began the application process months ago, long before the recent elections. This demonstrates the commitment of the current administration to ensure that our educational system is staffed with competent professionals who are prepared to serve our children.
“We urge the people of Edo, particularly teachers, parents, and students, to dismiss these unfortunate comments. It is crucial to recognize that our government is committed to upholding the constitution and prioritizing the welfare of our children over the whims of individuals.”
