Edo State’s governorship election is slated for September 21, 2024, as announced by the Independent Electoral Committee. If you thought political drama was exclusive to TV shows, Edo State has proven otherwise. The political landscape here is charged with intense rivalries and strategic maneuvers.
The Major Contenders
Who are the main candidates vying for the Edo governorship seat? Meet the three key players:
- Ighodalo Asuerinme of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
- Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP)
- Okpebholo Monday of the All Progressives Congress (APC)
Current Governor Godwin Obaseki has been unabashedly promoting Ighodalo Asuerinme as his preferred successor. This favoritism was starkly displayed when Obaseki orchestrated the impeachment of former Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. Shaibu, who had shown interest in running for governor, was quickly replaced by Omobayo Godwin. Omobayo’s role appears to be more ceremonial, largely revolving around campaigning vigorously for Asuerinme.
Obaseki’s Final Acts
The political environment in Edo State, while outwardly calm, tells a different story beneath the surface. Official campaign activities haven’t fully kicked off, yet Obaseki’s efforts to secure a PDP victory are palpable. For instance, why else would he raise the minimum wage by 70 percent just as his tenure is winding down? The timing seems more than coincidental.
Akpata’s Struggle Against Vandalism
Meanwhile, Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s candidate, is facing his own set of challenges. Recently, Akpata has taken to Twitter to decry the vandalism of his campaign banners. He accuses “Obaseki’s thugs” of tearing down his billboards in a bid to stifle his campaign.
“In a desperate attempt to silence our message of hope and positive change, the forces of the old order have resorted to their typical tactic: intimidation and brigandage – vandalising and removing my billboards across Benin City, which I lawfully paid for,” Akpata lamented. He cited specific instances of vandalism in Oredo, Ovia North East, and Ikpoba Okha LGAs.
Akpata’s Defiant Stand
Despite these setbacks, Akpata remains resolute. “We will not be cowed by these cowardly tactics,” he asserted. Akpata is determined to defend his constitutional rights and continue his campaign unfazed by these “contemptible acts.” He emphasized that the people of Edo State deserve a campaign driven by ideas, not the desperate maneuvers of those clinging to power.
“This is a struggle for the soul of our democracy. And we shall overcome through the power of the people,” Akpata declared, signaling his unyielding commitment to his campaign and the ideals he represents.
Public Reactions
The drama has not gone unnoticed by the public, particularly on Twitter. Users have expressed a mix of support and skepticism.
@Asumende commented, “Sorry sir, yesterday Mr. @PeterObi has come out to inform us that the Obedient movement doesn’t have affiliation with any political party, which simply means you cannot bank on the structure you did not build. Obi has asked them to stand for what they believe in.”
@OmoDaddy offered a more supportive note: “I wish you victory, Sir. You were truly on the side of the masses during your NBA chairmanship, even we who are not lawyers felt your leadership, unlike the people without honor who succeeded you. I hope Edo state votes for you and vehemently defends their votes until announced.”
The Road Ahead
As the election date approaches, the political temperature in Edo State is expected to rise even further. With the major contenders gearing up for what promises to be a fierce battle, the citizens of Edo State are watching closely, eager to see how this drama will unfold.
