If he wins the 21 September governorship election in Edo State, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Asue Ighodalo would build upon the “legacies of past administrations” stretching as far back as the administrations of Prof. Ambrose Alli, and including the “developments achieved more recently by Governors (Lucky) Igbinedion, (Adams) Oshiomole and (Godwin) Obaseki; while charting a new course for progress”.
In a statement on Thursday, the Team Asue Media Organisation (TAMO) said that its principal acknowledges “the importance of continuity in governance”, and “recognises the need for policy consistency and vows to critically evaluate existing policies to ensure their relevance and effectiveness in addressing present-day challenges”.
TAMO explained that Ighodalo’s statement that he would “continue from where Governor Obaseki stops” is a pointed to his determination not to abandon “developmental projects that have benefited the people of Edo”.
The group said that Ighodalo would rather build “upon the many laudable new foundations that Obaseki has championed in security, education and health to name a few critical sectors”.
The statement further read: “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 prioritisation 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.
“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.
“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.
“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.
“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”.
Recently, Reverend Abel Audu Michael criticised Ighodalo’s declaration to continue from where the incumbent governor, Obaseki stopped, saying that blew off the “little hopes Edo voters have in PDP”.
Like Obaseki, Ighodalo is also of the PDP.
