Immediate past Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has refuted claims that he left the state with a N600 billion debt.

Obaseki’s denial came in response to allegations by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Kassim Afegbua, who also questioned the status of legacy projects, including the Radisson Hotel and the Museum of West African Arts (MOWAA).

Speaking through his Media Adviser, Crusoe Osagie, Obaseki described the allegations as false and misleading, warning that such statements tarnish Nigeria’s image internationally. He urged Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to verify any claims of debt with the Debt Management Office (DMO), noting that no government—federal, state, or local—can legally incur debt without DMO approval.

Obaseki criticized statements from the Edo State government, saying they suggested the state was being run by officials unfamiliar with proper governance.

Regarding the Radisson Hotel, Obaseki confirmed that the project was handled through a legitimate business agreement with all legal and procedural requirements met. He also defended the Museum of West African Arts, highlighting its international investment partnerships with Germany, the United Kingdom, and France.

“These comments are irresponsible and misrepresent the state to the international community, giving the impression that Nigeria is poorly governed,” Obaseki said.

He challenged critics to check official records at the DMO to substantiate the N600 billion debt claim, asserting that no such loans or indebtedness were recorded.

Obaseki concluded that such misinformation reflects poorly on the current administration and could damage both Edo State and Nigeria’s reputation abroad.