Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the September 2024 Edo State governorship election, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, as cleared the air about his vision and how he intends to actualise it if Edo people give him the mandate during the election. He made the clarification via a statement issued in Benin City, the state capital, yesterday, May 7, 2024 by the Team Asue Media Organization (TAMO) in response to recent statements by a cleric, Reverend (Dr) Abel Audu Michael.

“Recent statements by Reverend (Dr) Abel Audu Michael regarding Asue Ighodalo’s intentions for governance are unfortunately misleading and misinterpret the message and vision that Asue Ighodalo intends to bring to the Edo State Governorship,” TAMO said in the statement. It went ahead to present the facts as follows:

1) Acknowledging the importance of continuity in governance, Ighodalo has pledged to build upon the “legacies of past administrations” stretching as far back as the achievements recorded by Ambrose Alli, and including the developments achieved more recently by Governors Igbinedion, Oshiomole and Obaseki; while charting a new course for progress.

2) Our Principal, Dr Asue Ighodalo recognizes the need for policy consistency and vows to critically evaluate existing policies to ensure their relevance and effectiveness in addressing present-day challenges.

3) It is essential to clarify that when Dr Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, flagbearer, says he will “continue from where Governor Obaseki stops,” he speaks of not abandoning developmental projects that have benefited the people of Edo, and building upon the many laudable new foundations that Obaseki has championed in security, education and health to name a few critical sectors.

4) The Administration of His Excellency, Mr. Godwin Nogheghase Obaseki, has also made giant strides in improving civil service capacity and land administration which are foundational to the continued prosperity of Edo State as is his prioritization of workers welfare and wellbeing. Edo State is currently the only state with a minimum wage of N70,000 and it is one policy Asue Ighodalo intends to continue; as he believes a minimum wage must be a living wage.

5) Ighodalo aims to build upon these and address any inevitable gaps and shortcomings with fresh solutions and inclusive governance that considers the welfare of all Edo citizens.

6) Regarding the concerns about ongoing legal matters, it’s crucial to note that Governor Obaseki is not a party to any legal action against our revered father, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’ Akpolokpolo Ewuare 11, the Oba of Benin, whose ancient and exalted throne ought not be dragged into the fray in a desperate quest for political advantage. For the avoidance of any doubt, as a child of the palace himself, Asue Ighodalo holds his Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku’ Akpolokpolo Ewuare 11, the Oba of Benin, in the highest regard, and will continue to honour and respect the throne.

7) As a lawyer of repute, while Asue Ighodalo believes in the rule of law, he also subscribes in particular to the importance of resolving all disputes with respect and fairness, particularly those involving traditional leaders and institutions. If elected, his focus will be on unity, justice, and economic development for the good people of Edo state, not on prolonging past conflicts.

8) Furthermore, Ighodalo is committed to transparency and effectiveness in handling all state matters, including the fair distribution of developmental resources to the people of Edo State. His campaign is rooted in accountability and service, aiming to ensure that every citizen benefits from the state's growth and prosperity.

9) In conclusion, we invite all citizens, including Reverend Audu Michael, to engage constructively and unite for a better Edo State.

Ighodalo remains dedicated to this vision and is prepared to demonstrate his capacity to lead with integrity, transparency and innovation.

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