As the Edo governorship election nears in September, a significant political endorsement has emerged. A total of 192 councilors across the state have officially pledged their support for Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the PDP governorship candidate. This support is accompanied by a strong vote of confidence in Governor Godwin Obaseki, recognizing his efficient management of their salaries and allowances, as well as his provision of vehicles for legislative leaders.
The councilors’ endorsement follows recent claims by Mr. Agbukor Lucky, the APC Deputy Chairman for Media and Publicity in Etsako East Local Government Area. Lucky had alleged that the 192 councilors were dissatisfied with Governor Obaseki due to issues with unpaid salaries and allowances, suggesting they would work against the PDP candidate in the upcoming election. This claim sparked a robust response from the councilors.
The councilors have vehemently rejected Lucky’s allegations, labeling them as misleading and a direct attack on the democratic process. They collectively affirmed their support for Governor Obaseki, describing him as an exceptional leader who has consistently prioritized their welfare. “Governor Obaseki has ensured that we are not owed any salary, which stands in sharp contrast to the claims being made,” they emphasized.
In a recent emergency meeting held in Agenebode, key legislative leaders including Solomon Oguma from Etsako East Local Government, Augustine Oleleayegbele from lgueben Local Government, Omoruyi Igbinake from Ovia North East, and Aikhodion Joshua Braih from Owan East, voiced their condemnation of Lucky’s statements. They called for Lucky’s arrest, accusing him of showing disrespect to the Governor and disseminating false information designed to mislead the public.
Solomon Oguma praised Governor Obaseki as the best governor Edo State has had, highlighting his provision of vehicles to all legislative leaders, a gesture that came as a pleasant surprise. Augustine Oleleayegbele dismissed Lucky’s allegations as “nonsense” and “a joke,” emphasizing that there is no reason for them to vote against Ighodalo, who has actively engaged with the people of Edo State and articulated a clear manifesto.
Omoruyi Igbinake expressed his disdain for the APC’s tactics, calling them desperate and reflecting frustration. “Even in our dreams, we will vote for Ighodalo,” Igbinake stated, reflecting the strong commitment among the councilors.
A communiqué issued by Mr. Benjamin Atu, the Chief Press Secretary for the Etsako East Local Government Council, at the end of the emergency meeting, accused the APC of attempting to create confusion and manipulate the election outcome. The councilors have urged the police to thoroughly investigate the motives behind the false claims and to take action against those responsible for the misleading campaign.
The councilors concluded with a strong statement of support for Dr. Ighodalo, promising to work diligently to ensure his victory in every ward and unit. They reiterated their belief in Governor Obaseki’s leadership, declaring their unwavering commitment to both the Governor and the PDP candidate.
