'Edo panel not set up to witch-hunt Obaseki'

*Panel promises fairness in Obaseki's govt probe

EDO STATE, Nigeria —The Chairman of the Edo State Assets Verification Committee, Ernest Umakhihe, said the panel to investigate former Edo state Governor, Godwin Obaseki's administration was not set up for a witch-hunt.

He noted that the panel was established to probe the records of the immediate-past administration of ex-Governor Godwin Obaseki.

He stated that the committee would ensure accuracy and accountability in the discharge of its mandate, adding, “We will be looking at the budget; who is doing what and in what location?”

Umakhihe, who spoke to journalists at the Government House in Benin after the 14-man committee was inaugurated by Governor Monday Okpebholo said,  “We are looking into the financial and non-financial aspects of the government."

A member of the committee, Prince Kassim Afegbua, insisted that the committee would not be deterred by the opposition party’s criticism, pointing out that asset verification was a global practice.

Afegbua said, “The committee is made up of people with proven track records in governance, legislature and finance. We are going to interrogate claims and figures.

“The step taken by our government in the first 14 days has endeared Edo people to us. Certain persons will be invited to the panel and we will be fair.”