From Comrade Robinson Akhenoba
As the winds of change continue to sweep through the Edo politics intrigues, various factors have emerged that could possibly pose significant obstacles to Governor Obaseki’s third term path to power through Asue Ighodalo.
Foremost among these challenges was the looming shadow of godfatherism, a pervasive force that sought to dictate the political narrative and stifle the aspirations of those seeking to lead independently. The tangled web of allegiances and power plays woven by influential figures has cast a dark cloud over Obaseki candidate campaign, making it difficult for his voice to be heard above the din of vested interests.
Adding to the tumult was the specter of Obaseki’s past transgressions, particularly his derogatory remarks aimed at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2020 Edo Governorship campaign. The incendiary words “Edo No Be Lagos” resonated through Edo political panorama, stirring up old wounds and fueling animosities that threatened to derail Obaseki’s proxy third term bid for governorship.
The formidable backing of the APC and its ties to the presidency posed a formidable hurdle for PDP candidate. With powerful forces aligning against the party in Edo State, the road to victory seemed fraught with peril and uncertainty.
Compounding these challenges were Governor Godwin Obaseki’s lackluster performance in office over the last seven years, a fact that fueled dissatisfaction among the electorate and cast a shadow of doubt over his chosen candidate ability to lead effectively.
Moreover, the simmering feud between Obaseki and his deputy, Philip Shaibu, further muddied the waters and sowed seeds of discord within the ruling party, creating a hostile environment for Obaseki proxy candidacy to flourish.
As if these obstacles were not formidable enough, Obaseki’s betrayal of the Legacy PDP trust and his contentious relationship with the revered Oba of Benin only added to the cacophony of challenges facing proxy bid for governorship.
The imposition of a governorship candidate on the people of Edo, coupled with the lack of meaningful empowerment initiatives, further alienated the populace and undermined Obaseki and his candidate chances of winning the hearts and minds of Edo people.
The closure of Igueben College of Education by Governor Obaseki sent another shockwaves through the community, casting a shadow of doubt on his leadership and raising questions about his commitment to education and empowerment. As the people of Edo grappled with the implications of this controversial decision, whispers of discontent rippled through the government house, setting the stage for a contentious political showdown.
Meanwhile, the inability of Asue Ighodalo to communicate effectively in the Esan language, his native tongue, highlighted another crucial gap in his connection to his roots and his understanding of the pulse of his people. In a society where language is the key to hearts and minds, this deficiency also threatened to undermine Asue’s candidacy and weaken his appeal to the electorate.
Further complicating the Governor/Ighodalo’s political voyage was the betrayals and shifting alliances that marked Obaseki’s turbulent tenure, from his rift with Governor Wike to his technical weakening of Ambrose Alli University. These fissures in his leadership only served to deepen the divisions and sow seeds of distrust among the people of Edo, creating fertile ground for opposition to take root.
Disregarding the House of Igbinidion’s political influence, Obaseki also risked alienating a powerful ally and opening himself up to attacks from all sides. In a political realm where alliances could make or break a candidate’s fortunes, the dismissal of this influential group’s support was a risky gambit that could have far-reaching consequences.
In the face of such daunting hurdles, Obaseki’s choice of candidate, Asue Ighodalo stood at a crossroads, facing a formidable array of obstacles that threatened to derail his aspirations. Only time would tell whether Obaseki and his adopted candidate could navigate the treacherous waters of Edo’s political terrain and emerge victorious against all odds.
In all, Edo must succeed, don’t come and attack me.
Comrade Robinson Akhenoba is the writer and publisher of The Political Evangelist
