Stakeholders seek power shift to Edo Central

Certain stakeholders in Edo State have decried the rift between Governor Godwin Obaseki and Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu over ticket for the 2024 governorship election in the state.

The stakeholders, making a case for justice and equity in the state, emphasized that the power statistics of the Government House revealed under-representation of Edo Central Senatorial District in the seat of power.

A concerned Edo citizen in Diaspora, Ehi F. Oyabure, in a statement, argued that in the spirit of equity and justice, “the forthcoming Governor should emerge from the Edo Central Senatorial District”.

he was of the view that by upholding this principle, they will ensure a balanced representation that embraces all corners of the state and reflects the shared aspirations of the people.

He highlighted representation at the Edo State executive offices under the contemporary democratic dispensation from 1999 as follows: Edo Central Senatorial District produced governor for one year; Edo north Senatorial District eight years; and Edo South Senatorial District 15 years.

Highlighting the statistics of the Offices of the deputy governor, secretary to the state government and trhe Chief of staff to the governor, since 1999, the Concerned Citizen argued that “the breakdown undeniably reveals a pattern of under-representation of Edo Central Senatorial District at the executive branch of government, emphasizing the compelling need for an equitable and balanced opportunity for this district.”

He remarked that “while the argument for electing leaders based on competence is valid and essential, it’s crucial to recognize that competence knows no geographical bounds.

“Edo Central, just like all other senatorial districts, boasts a pool of qualified and capable individuals ready to lead and contribute to the progress of our dear state”.

He, therefore, declared that “the commitment of all Edo citizens should be to fairness, inclusiveness, and the balanced representation of all Edo citizens, regardless of their tribe or origin.”

The full statement reads:

*An Open Letter to Edo Citizens Worldwide*

Dear Edonians,

I address you today with an earnest plea for unity and understanding amidst the current rifts between Governor Godwin Obaseki and Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu. The fabric of our great state is woven from the threads of diversity, and it is vital that we come together for the sake of peace and progress.

Let us recognize that Deputy Governor Shaibu possesses the constitutional right to aspire for the esteemed position of Edo State Governorship in 2024. Similarly, Governor Obaseki holds the prerogative to extend his support to any candidate he deems fit.

In the spirit of equity and justice, I firmly believe that the forthcoming Governor should emerge from the Edo Central Senatorial District. By upholding this principle, we ensure a balanced representation that embraces all corners of our state and reflects the shared aspirations of our people.

To offer a clearer perspective, here is a breakdown of the top executive positions in Edo State from 1999 to the present:

Edo State top four executive officers: 1999 – Present

*Governor:*
– Central: 1 year
– North: 8 years
– South: 15 years

*Deputy Governor:*
– Central: 0 years
– North: 15 years
– South: 9 years

*Secretary to the State Government (SSG):*
– Central: 1 year
– North: 8 years
– South: 15 years

*Chief of Staff:*
– Central: 0 years
– North: 12 years
– South: 12 years

The breakdown undeniably reveals a pattern of under-representation of Edo Central Senatorial District at the executive branch of government, emphasizing the compelling need for an equitable and balanced opportunity for this district.

While the argument for electing leaders based on competence is valid and essential, it’s crucial to recognize that competence knows no geographical bounds.

Edo Central, just like all other senatorial districts, boasts a pool of qualified and capable individuals ready to lead and contribute to the progress of our dear state.

The commitment of all Edo citizens should be to fairness, inclusivity, and the balanced representation of all Edo citizens, regardless of their tribe or origin.

Therefore, we implore the Governor, Deputy Governor, and their supporters to lay down their grievances and work hand in hand toward a harmonious future. Only through such collaboration can we truly realize the full potential of our beloved Edo in the remaining 13 months of this present administration.

Let us seize this moment to rise above discord and chart a course toward a brighter tomorrow, one where the Edo State flag flies high as a symbol of unity and prosperity.

The path to our collective growth demands cooperation, respect, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of every Edo citizen.

With this premise as my guiding principle, I am committed to wholeheartedly support and actively contribute to the success of a candidate hailing from Edo Central in the upcoming 2024 gubernatorial election.

I hereby humbly submit to each and every one of you, driven by an unyielding dedication to fostering unity, peace, and prosperity for the people of Edo.

Yours truly,

Ehi F. Oyabure,
A Concerned Edo Citizen in Diaspora