The Director General of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Campaign Organisation, Senator Matthew Urhoghide, asserted yesterday that the exceptional performances of the party’s gubernatorial candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, and his running mate, Dennis Idahosa, in their respective senatorial district and federal constituency, will propel the party to victory in the upcoming September 21 governorship election in the state.
During a conversation with journalists in Benin City, Urhoghide also criticized disparaging remarks made by the opposition regarding Okpebholo’s competence and capability, emphasizing that his adeptness in assembling a proficient team to lead the party to success in his senatorial election is a testament to his superior administrative skills.
He expressed, “It is inappropriate for anyone to label our candidate as incompetent. It is premature to judge anyone’s competence at this stage. Even if someone lacks knowledge, their ability to bring together skilled individuals demonstrates their administrative proficiency.
“It is noteworthy that our candidate has previously contested elections in the Edo Central senatorial district and garnered the support of the people, emerging victorious. Therefore, as a candidate, building upon his prior achievements makes his decision to run for governorship quite timely.
“In Edo North, the APC has successfully secured the people’s mandate through Senator Adams Oshiomhole. Therefore, when considering Edo South in conjunction with Edo Central and North, the party holds substantial favorability for the governorship.
“His running mate, the incumbent member of the House of Representatives from Ovia, is currently serving his second term. Both our candidate and the party are well-regarded in their respective constituencies, positioning the party as the most prepared among the contenders.”
Addressing the issue of ‘federal might,’ Urhoghide remarked, “The notion of ‘federal might’ is frequently discussed. However, the political affiliations of individuals in power have not hindered electoral outcomes in the past. I, a former PDP member, was elected to the Senate while the governor of my state belonged to the APC. Similarly, when I sought reelection, despite facing a strong APC candidate, I emerged victorious based on merit. This upcoming election will be based on the candidate’s accomplishments, and we are confident in their success.”
