APC, PDP Clash Over Edo State’s First Flyover Project

The Edo State chapters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are locked in a war of words over the construction of the state’s first flyover at Ramat Park, Ikpoba Okha Local Government Area.

The project, flagged off last month by Governor Monday Okpebholo, has drawn sharp criticism from the PDP. At a press briefing on November 26, 2024, Dr. Anthony Aziegbemi, chairman of the PDP caretaker committee in Edo State, alleged that the contract for the flyover violated standard procurement procedures.

Aziegbemi described the project as a “white elephant” initiative aimed at rewarding political allies.

“We are also aware that the ‘emergency’ overhead bridge flagged off by the Okpebholo-led government at Ramat Park bypassed all standard procurement procedures.

This flyover is nothing but a white elephant project to reward godfathers for their role in subverting the will of Edo people at the just-concluded gubernatorial election,” he said.

The PDP demanded transparency, urging the government to disclose details about the procurement process, the project’s cost, timelines, and compliance with the state’s Public Procurement Act.

In response, the acting state chairman of the APC, Jarret Tenebe, dismissed the allegations, accusing the PDP of being out of touch with modern governance.

Tenebe defended the project, noting that it was included in the recently reviewed 2024 appropriation bill.

“The flyover bridge, which the PDP had criticised, was captured in the revised 2024 budget. Dr. Tony Aziegbemi’s claims only show his lack of understanding of the implementation of the revised appropriation law of Edo State,” Tenebe said.

He further argued that the project addresses urgent infrastructural needs and reflects the administration’s commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of Edo residents.

“Edo people are now happy that a governor who understands their plights is tackling them head-on. What the PDP termed ‘impossible projects,’ like flyovers, are now being realised by a government determined to work,” Tenebe added.

The debate over the flyover project highlights the growing political tensions in Edo State as both parties continue to trade accusations.