Kehinde Fajobi
Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has expressed his desire not to be remembered for his numerous political conflicts.
He made this remark on Friday during a media interaction following the commissioning of the Airport Road Parks and Garden in Benin City, the state capital.
When asked how he would like to be remembered after his tenure, Obaseki stated, “Certainly not for the fights,” indicating his struggles against political opponents and former allies.
The governor also outlined plans to ensure the sustainability of the newly inaugurated garden, which he hopes will draw residents daily.
He explained, “When we thought about all these public spaces and how to manage them, we also created a revenue model to support them.
For instance, all the revenue from billboards around here will come into managing them, and Prestige Hotel will also support the park. The military has also promised to support in terms of security.”
Emphasising his commitment to work over celebration, he added, “I believe in first doing the work before celebrating. We will try to commission as much as we can, but I don’t think we will be commissioning as much as 10 per cent of what we have done, and that is why the people came out and voted for us.”
Reflecting on his time in office, he said, “I feel appreciated. The response from our people is quite commendable, and no wonder people came out and voted for us the way they did. I can’t be tired of saying thank you for the opportunity to serve.”
Obaseki’s tenure will conclude with the swearing-in of Governor-elect Monday Okpebholo on November 12, marking the end of his eight-year administration.