In a startling revelation during his interview with BBC Pidgin, Asue Ighodalo, who served as Governor Godwin Obaseki’s economic adviser for the past eight years, admitted that the Edo State government has fallen short of expectations. Ighodalo highlighted critical issues such as a lack of basic amenities—like water and electricity—escalating insecurity, and rising poverty levels as clear signs of failure. He even went so far as to acknowledge that farmers are now unable to safely access their lands.
This confession from Ighodalo, the individual responsible for shaping the economic policies of the Obaseki administration, underscores the dire situation in Edo. For eight years, he played a pivotal role in making decisions that have ultimately plunged the state into despair. His current distancing from the very government he helped lead seems to be a desperate bid to evade accountability.
It is important to note that Asue Ighodalo shares the blame with Obaseki for the economic and social decline in Edo State. His intention to run for governor on a platform of “fixing” the problems he contributed to is not just hypocritical; it’s an affront to the intelligence of the Edo people.
The facts are clear:
- Widespread Poverty: Under the leadership of Obaseki and Ighodalo, poverty levels in Edo State have surged. Despite promises of economic revitalization, the state’s economy has worsened, leaving many citizens struggling to survive.
- Lack of Basic Amenities: Ighodalo’s admission of insufficient water and electricity highlights a failure to prioritize the basic needs of the population. These essentials have been overlooked during his tenure.
- Escalating Insecurity: The inability of farmers to access their lands due to insecurity is a glaring indictment of the governance failure. The Obaseki administration, with Ighodalo as a key adviser, has failed to safeguard its citizens, allowing insecurity to proliferate.
- Failure to Deliver on Promises: Ighodalo’s own statements are a damning reflection of the Obaseki administration’s inability to fulfill its commitments to the people.
The citizens of Edo State deserve more than a continuation of past failures. Asue Ighodalo’s admission serves as a clear signal that electing him would mean perpetuating the very policies that have crippled the state.
The APC and its candidates, Senator Monday Okpebholo and Hon. Dennis Idahosa, present a viable alternative—a genuine opportunity to rebuild Edo State with strong leadership dedicated to its people.
The future of Edo is in your hands. Reject the failures of the past. Reject Asue Ighodalo.
Signed,
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah
Director
APC New Media Directorate
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