Edo State Governor Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki continued his campaign for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday with a major rally in Akoko-Edo, ahead of the September 21 governorship election.
Accompanied by the party’s candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, his running mate, Osarodion Ogie Esq., and other top party leaders, Obaseki was greeted by a massive, enthusiastic crowd at the Igarra Open Field in Nigeria’s oldest local government area.
Governor Obaseki praised the people of Akoko-Edo for their unwavering support for the PDP, acknowledging the marginalization the area has faced in the past.
He emphasized his commitment to changing that narrative, highlighting the key positions he has awarded to Akoko-Edo indigenes and the establishment of a polytechnic in the area, recognizing the intellectual capacity of the local people.
Obaseki underscored the importance of continuity in governance, stressing the need for capable, competent, and empathetic leadership. He explained that this was the reason he selected Ighodalo and Ogie to drive further development in Edo State.
The governor also noted that Akoko-Edo is rich in mineral resources and promised that the government has plans to secure mining licenses, with Ighodalo bringing in investors to the area.
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In his welcome address, Deputy Governor Engr Godwins Omobayo thanked Obaseki for providing Akoko-Edo with significant positions, noting that no other governor had done as much for the local government.
He dismissed claims that a group in Akoko-Edo had endorsed the APC candidate, labeling it the voice of a few seeking financial gain, rather than the will of the people.
Local Government Council Chairman Tajudeen Alade Suleiman and PDP chieftain Hon Tunde Akogun both praised Obaseki’s efforts in Akoko-Edo and endorsed Ighodalo’s candidacy, criticizing the APC candidate as being overly dependent on former Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
Addressing the crowd, Ighodalo expressed gratitude for the warm reception and promised to revitalize tourism and agriculture in Akoko-Edo, particularly cashew production.
He also committed to leveraging the area’s mineral resources to drive prosperity, urging the people to vote for PDP as a symbol of progress and light. He assured them that their votes would count, with President Bola Tinubu guaranteeing a free, fair, and credible election in Edo State.