God will punish politicians who use power for personal gain – Obaseki

Former Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, has warned that politicians who use power for personal gain will face divine punishment, describing political authority as a trust given by God to serve the people.

Speaking at an event, Obaseki said politics should be about improving citizens’ lives, not enriching oneself or close associates. According to him, leaders who misuse power fail both God and the electorate.

“If you are in politics to get power, and you get the power and it’s only for you and your friends, then God will punish you,” he said, adding that power must be used to serve humanity and glorify God.

Obaseki said he has no regrets about his time in office and would not change his approach if given another opportunity, noting that he would only act faster and more decisively.

Reflecting on his tenure, he expressed regret that some reforms, especially in education, did not start earlier to allow their impact to be more visible. He also explained that his support for a successor was intentional, aimed at ensuring continuity of policies and reforms.

The former governor warned that dismantling programmes introduced by his administration would hurt ordinary citizens, not former leaders. He stressed that governance should build on existing progress rather than destroy it.

“How can someone gain power and be happy while people are suffering and unable to eat?” Obaseki asked, insisting that leaders who ignore the purpose of power fail to understand why God entrusted them with authority.