Edo 2024: A Call for Integrity and Responsibility in the Upcoming Governorship Election

As the Edo State governorship election scheduled for 21st September 2024 approaches, the political atmosphere is becoming increasingly charged.

The Asue-Ogie Campaign Management Council has made a strong appeal to the citizens of Edo State, urging them not to compromise their future by electing an unqualified candidate. The call to action was made public during a press conference held in Benin City, the state capital, on Sunday.

The council, led by its Deputy Director-General for Media, Olu Martins, addressed the press, responding to recent allegations made by Senator Adams Oshiomhole.

Oshiomhole, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), had earlier claimed that a woman was apprehended with multiple Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) in the Ovia Federal Constituency.

He raised concerns during an APC governorship rally, suggesting that there were plans to manipulate the electoral process.

Oshiomhole also challenged Governor Godwin Obaseki and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Barrister Asue Ighodalo, to abandon any thoughts of election rigging.

In response, Olu Martins emphasised the importance of Edo voters making informed decisions in the upcoming election.

He urged them not to repeat past mistakes, specifically referencing the 2015 presidential election, where former President Goodluck Jonathan was defeated by Muhammadu Buhari.

Martins highlighted that this decision, driven by the perception that Jonathan was ineffective, led to unforeseen consequences. He warned against making a similar mistake in the forthcoming governorship election.

Martins argued that the only candidate capable of sustaining and building upon the achievements of the outgoing Governor Obaseki is Barrister Asue Ighodalo.

Furthermore, Martins questioned the intentions and promises of other political parties, urging Edo citizens to scrutinise what each party and its candidates are genuinely offering the state.

The press conference served as a platform for Martins to call for greater accountability and transparency in the electoral process.

He expressed concern that too often, candidates are shielded by their parties, making it difficult for voters to hold them accountable once elected.

Martins called on political parties to allow their candidates to speak for themselves, so that the electorate can make informed decisions based on the candidates’ own words and actions.

He went on to encourage the people of Edo State to carefully evaluate the backgrounds and track records of all candidates, particularly those of Asue Ighodalo and Monday Okpebholo, the latter being another contender in the race.

Martins stressed that the responsibility lies with the voters to ensure that only the most capable candidate is elected to lead the state.

He urged his fellow Edo citizens, both at home and abroad, to see the future of Edo State as a collective project that requires careful stewardship.

Martins’ message was clear: Edo State cannot afford to prioritise mediocrity over merit. He called on the electorate to resist any attempts by external forces to influence the election outcome.

This election, he insisted, is about securing the future of Edo State, and it requires the active participation and critical judgement of every voter.

In conclusion, the upcoming Edo State governorship election represents a pivotal moment for the state.

With various candidates vying for the governorship, the decision made by Edo voters will have long-lasting implications.

The Asue-Ogie Campaign Management Council has made a passionate plea for voters to choose wisely, emphasising the need for a leader who can sustain the progress made under Governor Obaseki and continue to drive the state forward.

As the election date draws nearer, the call for integrity, responsibility, and informed decision-making has never been more urgent.