Former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole has expressed his delight over the All Progressives Congress (APC) reclaiming power in Edo, following the fallout between him and current Governor Godwin Obaseki. Oshiomhole’s excitement is palpable, especially considering Obaseki’s infamous switch to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2020, which was widely regarded as a betrayal of the APC and a stunning political maneuver. Now, with the inauguration of Senator Monday Okpebholo on the horizon, all eyes are on Edo State, eager to witness what changes will unfold.
Oshiomhole hailed Okpebholo as the “rescuer” of Edo people, He claimed that Okpebholo’s mission is not only to restore integrity but also to overhaul the educational system, essentially promising a miracle where parents won’t have to cough up extra cash to keep their children’s teachers on payroll.
Turning to the previous administration, Oshiomhole did not hold back, labeling Obaseki’s management of funds, especially the so-called World Bank loans—as nothing short of a farce. “What did he do with that money?” he questioned, incredulous that schools are still understaffed while the “EdoBEST” initiative was paraded around like a golden child. For Oshiomhole, Obaseki left Edo in worse shape than he found it, an assertion that may well prompt the World Bank itself to take a closer look at the financial trail left behind.
“Senator Monday Okpebholo’s job is well cut out for him. Edo people cannot wait to see a new approach to governance: government of the people, by the people, and for Edo people. Incidentally, his name, translated in English, means the rescuer,” said Oshiomhole.
Oshiomhole urged the opposition to embrace this new chapter. “In a genuine democracy, there is no loser,” he proclaimed, echoing sentiments that, while noble, often feel more like wishful thinking in the cutthroat arena of Nigerian politics. He outlined a checklist of what Okpebholo must tackle, hiring teachers, rebuilding schools, repairing roads, revitalizing markets, and tackling insecurity. If Okpebholo can deliver on these promises, then perhaps, just perhaps, everyone could emerge as winners from this political saga.
As Oshiomhole implored, “Let us work closer.” It seems that the stage is set for a new era in Edo State, and whether or not Okpebholo can transform promises into reality remains to be seen. But for now, the excitement is contagious, and the people are ready for change.
