From Moshood Karim
Benin City– Chris Osa Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation in Edo State, on Tuesday issued a strongly worded statement addressing the hardships faced by Edo residents and Nigerians at large under the current Federal Government.
In the statement released and made available to Uptown Press, Nehikhare highlighted various efforts made by the Edo State government to alleviate suffering, while condemning the economic policies and governance of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Nehikhare emphasized the imperative need to draw attention to the plight of the people, attributing their struggles to the APC’s mismanagement of the economy over the past nine years.
Despite initiatives by the Edo State government, including an increase in minimum wage, free WiFi in various parts of the State, a free transport scheme benefiting over six million residents, and food palliatives, Nehikhare stressed that these measures are insufficient to counteract the negative impact of the APC’s policies.
“The haphazard withdrawal of subsidy by the APC Government on May 29, 2023, tossed the economy into chaos and pushed our people to the brink of starvation,” Nehikhare stated. He further criticized the decision to unify the exchange rate, which he claimed devalued the currency, exacerbated inflation, and negatively impacted the overall economic landscape.
Nehikhare also pointed to the increase in taxes and regulatory burdens on small businesses, which he argued has stifled business growth in the country. Additionally, he expressed concerns about the resurgence of terrorism, including suicide bombings, under the current administration.
In a scathing critique of the APC’s response, Nehikhare accused the party of ignoring the dire situation across the country.
“Just like the ostrich, they have buried their heads in the sand and have continued to gush out lies and propaganda, hoping to hoodwink our people,” he asserted.
He condemned the APC’s attempts to discredit the State government with “worthless pieces of paper” alleging fraud, and decried their efforts to manipulate public perception.
As the gubernatorial election in Edo State approaches on September 21, 2024, Nehikhare urged residents to remain vigilant and not be swayed by the APC’s tactics. He criticized the APC’s candidate, describing him as “hardly literate” and lacking the vision to lead the State.
“Our people are determined to break from this bondage by sustaining the leadership of the PDP at the State level,” Nehikhare declared.
He expressed confidence that the Edo people recognize the benefits of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and will continue to support it for the progress and prosperity of the State.
The statement concluded with a rallying call for unity and resilience among the Edo people. “Come September 21, it is PDP or nothing, and there is nothing the APC can do about it,” Nehikhare affirmed.
