CRPP Slams Okpebholo Over Edo Airline Project, Threatens Lawsuit
The Conference of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has strongly criticised Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, over his administration’s proposal to establish a state-owned airline, describing the initiative as wasteful, ill-timed and anti-people.
The group warned that it may approach the courts if the Edo State Government proceeds with what it termed a “white elephant project” amid pressing socio-economic challenges in the state. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Regional President of CRPP, Dr. Samson Isibor, said the organisation was appalled by the plan, questioning how the state intends to fund such a capital-intensive venture.
Isibor accused the Okpebholo administration of prioritising what he described as self-adulatory projects at the expense of critical sectors affecting the daily lives of Edo residents.
“CRPP is not happy with the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, prioritising projects that do not reflect the needs of the people,” the statement read.
The CRPP further faulted the proposed airline project, reportedly tagged Edo Air, arguing that it has no direct impact on the survival or welfare of ordinary Edo citizens.
According to the group, the state is grappling with dilapidated roads, rising insecurity, poverty and unemployment, particularly in rural communities where access roads are said to be almost non-existent.
“Hundreds of state and federal roads are begging for rehabilitation, especially in rural areas where many communities have been completely cut off,” Isibor said.
He added that many farmers are unable to transport their produce to urban markets due to poor road infrastructure, while insecurity continues to worsen as unemployment among youths remains high.
CRPP also raised concerns about the cost implications of establishing an airline, questioning whether such an investment is economically viable for the state.
“How much does it cost to acquire an aircraft such as a Boeing 707?” Isibor queried.
“What happened to the over ₦100 billion loan approval by the rubber-stamp House of Assembly? Is it productive to establish an airline that could cost the state over ₦5 trillion?”
The group insisted that the governor should clearly outline tangible benefits Edo residents have gained since he assumed office.
CRPP concluded by urging the state government to immediately abandon the airline project and redirect resources toward infrastructure development, job creation, and security.
The group warned that failure to heed its call could result in legal action to halt what it described as reckless public spending.
As of the time of filing this report, the Edo State Government has not responded to the CRPP’s allegations.