Former Edo Governor Disowns Unauthorized Birthday Fundraising
Inside Edo
Benin, Edo — Former Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, has issued a public disclaimer distancing himself from a fundraising initiative being conducted in his name.
In a detailed statement posted on his official X account (@GovernorObaseki) on July 9, 2026, Obaseki categorically stated that he has no knowledge of or involvement in the activities of a group calling itself the “Edo People Assembly and Development Initiatives.”
The initiative is reportedly soliciting donations from Obaseki’s supporters and well-wishers, claiming the funds will be used to publish birthday congratulatory messages in his honour. Obaseki’s birthday falls on July 1.
The full thread, signed by his media aide Crusoe Osagie, highlights several concerns that:
• Some prominent individuals listed as donors by the organisers have publicly denied making the contributions attributed to them.
• The development “raises serious questions about the integrity and credibility of the initiative.”
• Obaseki has “absolutely no knowledge of, or involvement in, this fundraising initiative.”
• Supporters are urged to exercise due diligence and verify the authenticity of any appeals before donating.
Full relevant excerpts from the thread:
“While everyone is free to celebrate and congratulate our distinguished leader, it is important that such efforts are conducted in an honest, transparent, and professional manner, as these are the values that His Excellency Godwin Obaseki consistently represents.”
“This development raises serious questions about the integrity and credibility of the initiative. Accordingly, we wish to state unequivocally that His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has absolutely no knowledge of, or involvement in, this fundraising initiative.”
“We therefore advise all prospective contributors and supporters to exercise due diligence and thoroughly verify the authenticity of any such appeal before committing their resources to this or any similar initiative.”
“We urge all supporters and well-wishers of His Excellency to be guided accordingly.”
Obaseki served as Governor of Edo State from 2016 to 2024. Since leaving office, he has maintained a relatively low public profile, with occasional statements on state and national issues.
In May 2026, he was appointed a Visiting Scholar/Researcher at Boston University’s African Studies Center.
The latest statement comes amid what appears to be spontaneous tributes and congratulations from supporters following his birthday and recent academic appointment.
However, Obaseki’s team has made it clear that no group or individual has been authorised to raise funds on his behalf for birthday-related activities.
The former governor’s office is advising the public to:
• Disregard any fundraising appeals made in his name unless officially communicated through recognised channels.
• Verify the authenticity of any initiative claiming association with him.
• Report suspicious activities to appropriate authorities if necessary.
No response from the organisers of the “Edo People Assembly and Development Initiatives” has been reported as of press time.
This development serves as a reminder for supporters of public figures to remain vigilant against potential misuse of names in fundraising schemes.
