The Edo State gubernatorial race for the 2024 election is already simmering with tension, with accusations of favouritism and manipulation swirling around the selection of candidates.
The latest twist comes from a meeting allegedly convened by Senator Adams Oshiomole, where party stalwarts were reportedly told to support Dennis Idahosa, a controversial figure with a history of scandal.
Oshiomole’s alleged endorsement of Idahosa has drawn sharp criticism from several quarters.
The Concerned Edo Indigenes for Better Governance organisation questioned the logic of supporting a candidate previously removed from office by Oshiomole himself over fraud allegations.
They condemned the move as “godfatherism” and urged Edo citizens to embrace “one man, one vote.”
Idahosa’s past as a commissioner removed from office for alleged fraud casts a long shadow over his candidacy.
Many Edo residents remain sceptical of his fitness for governance, citing his involvement in “illegal operations” that have caused suffering to the state.
This scepticism is further fueled by the accusation that Oshiomole, who once denounced Idahosa, is now backing him.
A statement from Mr. Osaro Ikpomwonsa, secretary of the Concerned Edo Indigenes for Better Governance, echoed public sentiment against godfatherism and called for fair governance in Edo State. The statement urged Oshiomole not to involve President Tinubu in the election, especially given Oshiomole’s failure to secure Edo State in the presidential election.
Dennis Idahosa, representing Ovia South/West-Ovia North/East Federal Constituency, is embroiled in controversy, having been previously removed from his position as Commissioner for Investment under Governor Oshiomole on fraud allegations. His potential candidacy has sparked widespread opposition among the youth, political figures, and the Edo diaspora, who view him as unfit for governance.
The general perception among Edolites is that Idahosa, involved in various illegal activities, has betrayed the trust of Edo State’s citizens. The primary question remains whether the people of Edo State will endorse his candidacy despite the associated risks.
It is both unexpected and concerning that Senator Adams Oshiomole, who once labelled Dennis Idahosa a criminal during his governorship, is now advocating for his governorship candidacy. This development is deemed intolerable and unacceptable by the people of Edo State, leading to a consensus against supporting Idahosa’s gubernatorial ambitions.
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