By Ayomide Otitoju
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has officially launched its campaign for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, with Governor Godwin Obaseki and other party leaders urging the people of Edo to support their candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, to continue the reforms implemented over the last eight years.
Governor Obaseki, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, former Deputy Governor Chief Mike Ogiadome, PDP stalwart Chief Tom Ikimi, and other key figures, gathered at the Ubiaja Township Stadium in Esan South East Local Government Area for the flag-off event.
Speaking at the rally, Obaseki emphasized the need for continuity, stating, “Asue Ighodalo is a man who knows what to do. The people need a credible candidate like him. We will be handing over to a winning team. Asue Ighodalo is coming to serve the people of Edo State. He is not looking for money, fame, or fortune but to serve because of the love he has for Edo people.” He added that Ighodalo, along with his running mate, Ogie, would carry forward the development initiatives already in place.
Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the PDP’s governorship candidate, echoed the governor’s sentiments, calling on Edo voters to support his bid to continue the progress made under Obaseki’s leadership. He pledged to tackle issues such as poverty, insecurity, and unemployment while enhancing agricultural output, education (particularly through the EdoBEST program), and industrial growth to ensure a prosperous future for the state.
The Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku, also encouraged voters to rally behind the PDP, asserting that Ighodalo is the best candidate to lead Edo State forward.
Former APC chieftain Chief Francis Inegbeneki, who has since joined the PDP, criticized the APC’s candidate, Monday Okpebholo, as lacking the necessary credibility and competence to govern the state.
Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Betsy Obaseki, praised the governor’s record, stating, “This governor respects law and order, fears God, and loves the people. That is why an Esan man has been picked to govern the state and continue where the incumbent stops. That Esan man is Asue Ighodalo, not the other one who can’t speak English.”
Former Deputy Governor of Edo State and former Chief of Staff to President Goodluck Jonathan, Chief Mike Ogiadome, also voiced his support, declaring Ighodalo the best choice in the upcoming election.
