By Simeon OSAJIE
The Chairman of the Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, has stated that former governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki cannot be forced to return to the state.
Aziegbemi stated this during 2025 end-of-year media briefing while reacting to calls by the Edo government for Obaseki to return to the state and face allegations of alleged financial impropriety during his tenure.
The PDP stated that Obaseki has the constitutional right to reside in any part of the world and warned that it would not tolerate any ploy to undermine the legacy of the former governor.
According to him, “Former Governor Obaseki is a free citizen of Nigeria and has the liberty to stay wherever he deems fit. It is on record that he previously wrote to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), which subsequently reviewed Edo State’s financial records covering his eight years in office. To the best of our knowledge, no formal invitation has been extended to him by any investigative agency.”
He added that it was inappropriate and demeaning for the state government to issue public demands or attempt to pressure the former governor into returning to Edo State.
“It is disturbing and unacceptable for any government official to suggest that he must return under intimidation. He will come back to Edo State when he personally decides to do so, not because someone in government says he should.”