An earlier report published during the Eid-el-Fitri celebrations examined the prospects of the three major political parties contesting the Edo State governorship election in September 2024. The report analyzed the strengths and weaknesses of each party and candidate, highlighting potential challenges that could hinder their success.

**Governor Obaseki and PDP Candidate Ighodalo**

The report identified several factors that could undermine the chances of Governor Obaseki and his preferred candidate, Dr. Asue Ighodalo. These factors include:

* Obaseki’s perceived ingratitude towards individuals who supported his campaigns in 2016 and 2020.
* His snubbing of the Legacy Group, a significant PDP caucus, in favor of an LP election loser as the replacement for impeached deputy governor Philip Shaibu.
* Obaseki’s administration’s poor performance, marked by heavy reliance on loans to pay salaries.
* The looming debt burden that Obaseki plans to leave behind before his handover in November.

**Disrespect for the Benin Traditional Kingdom**

Culturally, Obaseki and Ighodalo have been criticized for disrespecting the Ogidigan, Oba Ewuare II, and the Benin Traditional Kingdom. This includes the recent stripping of Commissioner Uyi Oduwa-Malaka of her chieftaincy title for disrespecting the Onotare of Ozalla Kingdom.

**Ighodalo’s Lack of Accessibility**

Ighodalo has been accused of being inaccessible and infrequent in his interactions with the public. This has raised concerns about his understanding of critical socio-political issues in Edo State.

**APC Candidate Okpebholo**

In contrast, the report highlights the strategic and hardworking candidacy of Senator Monday Okpebholo of the APC. Okpebholo’s lack of media attacks and focus on issue-based campaigns have been praised by some observers.

**PDP’s Rebuttals**

The PDP has attempted to counter the report’s claims through media rejoinders. However, these rejoinders have been unsuccessful in persuading readers.

**Conclusion**

The factors outlined in the report suggest that Obaseki, Ighodalo, and the PDP face significant challenges in the upcoming Edo State governorship election. These challenges include Obaseki’s perceived poor performance, Ighodalo’s lack of accessibility, and the party’s perceived disrespect for the Benin Traditional Kingdom. CONTINUE READING