The governorship campaign of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) received a major boost as it reached Irrua in Esan Central Local Government Area. This significant event marked a turning point for the PDP candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie. The rally saw a notable influx of defectors from various political parties, enhancing the PDP’s prospects in the upcoming election.
Chief Harrison Echie, who previously ran for the Edo State House of Assembly under the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP), led the defectors. These new members come from the ANPP, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Labour Party.
Echie expressed his enthusiasm for joining the PDP, highlighting that the people of Esan Central are impressed with Governor Godwin Obaseki’s performance.
He believes this positive perception will drive voters to support the PDP and its candidates in the general election scheduled for September 21.
The event, held at Eguare Primary School in Irrua, was an opportunity for Governor Obaseki to address the new members and reaffirm the PDP’s commitment to the state’s development. Obaseki welcomed the defectors warmly and underscored that the PDP is presenting the most competent and trustworthy candidate for the governorship election. He emphasized that the party’s focus is on the welfare of the people and the continued advancement of the state’s development.
Obaseki also highlighted the progress his administration has made in Esan Central, promising that this development will continue with Asue Ighodalo and Osarodion Ogie in office. He encouraged the crowd to mobilize and vote for the PDP, stressing that prosperity and continued progress are assured under their leadership.
In his speech, Governor Obaseki criticized the APC for worsening conditions in the country. He accused the APC of implementing harmful policies that have led to increased suffering for the people. Obaseki argued that while his administration has made significant strides in improving the state, the APC’s policies threaten to undo these achievements. He assured that the PDP would continue to push for progress and prevent any regression.
Asue Ighodalo, the PDP candidate, expressed his gratitude for the massive turnout and support from the people of Edo. He praised them for their intelligence and sophistication, asserting that they deserve leaders who are capable and well-educated.
Ighodalo addressed the pressing issue of water scarcity in Esan land, acknowledging the efforts made by Governor Obaseki but promising to fully resolve the problem if elected. He vowed to make the issue of water scarcity a thing of the past and ensure that every community in Esan land has reliable access to clean water.
Overall, the campaign event in Irrua demonstrated a strong rallying point for the PDP, with defectors adding to the momentum and setting the stage for a significant push in the upcoming election.