The Conference of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has threatened legal action against Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, if he proceeds with plans to establish a state-owned airline.
Governor Okpebholo reportedly announced the proposed Edo Air initiative during a meeting with the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, on Thursday, January 22, 2026, in Abuja. He described the project as a strategic effort to strengthen Edo State’s aviation sector, improve air connectivity, stimulate economic activities, and attract new investments.
In response, the CRPP, through its Regional President Dr. Samson Isibor, called on the governor to halt what it termed “wasteful spending” that does not benefit the majority of Edo residents.
Isibor argued that airlines primarily serve the wealthy and political elite, questioning how many ordinary Edo citizens could afford air travel. He contrasted this with other state governments that prioritize road construction and provide buses to transport citizens affordably.
“The news that Governor Okpebholo is contemplating establishing an air carrier, otherwise called Edo Airline, is uncalled for. Hundreds of state and federal roads, especially in rural areas, are in dire need of rehabilitation. Many villages lack access roads to transport farm produce to urban markets,” Isibor said.
He further criticised the governor for allegedly neglecting urgent issues such as rising insecurity, high youth unemployment, and poor living conditions, saying there is no clear agenda for the poor masses since Okpebholo assumed office.
The CRPP also demanded that the governor provide details on the cost of acquiring an aircraft, including a Boeing 707, and clarify the utilisation of the N100 billion loan approved by the State House of Assembly in 2025. They questioned the viability of a project that could cost the state over N5 trillion and increase Edo’s debt profile significantly.
Isibor advised that funds earmarked for Edo Air should instead be invested in revitalising moribund state-owned industries such as Uromi Cassavita, Ehor Fruit Juice Factory, Bendel Brewery, Eva Cement Company, and Egbigiere in Akoko-Edo Local Government Area. He noted that restoring these industries could create jobs for over 50,000 youths and boost the state’s internally generated revenue.