Labour Party’s governorship candidate, Olumide Akpata, has fiercely criticized outgoing Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki, accusing his administration of causing severe hardship for the people of Edo.
In a statement on Sunday, Akpata remarked that the suffering of Edo citizens has reached new heights under Obaseki’s leadership.
He pointed out that while the administration began with the All Progressives Congress (APC) and later shifted to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), it made little difference to the people’s struggles.
Akpata further lamented that the administration’s shift between political parties offered no genuine relief to the common man, only intensifying the impact of failed promises and poor governance. Over the last eight years, he added, there has been a consistent failure to address key issues affecting the state.
Akpata said, “The current administration celebrates our 33rd anniversary with pomp and pageantry, brandishing statistics of its supposed achievements. Yet, as I have traversed the length and breadth of our state—from Benin City to Auchi to Uromi—I have witnessed a stark disconnect between these lofty claims and the harsh realities on the ground.
“This political somersault has brought no relief to the common man. Instead, it has only deepened the wounds of misgovernance and unfulfilled promises. The past eight years have been a masterclass in the politics of deception—a government that changed parties but maintained the same disregard for the welfare of its citizens.
“Our youths, once brimming with hope and vigour, now find themselves trapped in a cycle of unemployment and despair. Our elderly, who should be enjoying the fruits of their labour, are struggling. Our farmers, the backbone of our economy, grapple with inadequate support and crumbling infrastructure.”
Reflecting on Edo State’s bright prospects from 33 years ago, Akpata said those dreams have been dimmed by years of neglect and mismanagement. However, he remains hopeful, drawing inspiration from the resilience of Edo’s people.
“But even in these challenging times, I see reason for hope. In my journeys across the state, I have been inspired by the resilience of our people. I have met young people who, despite all odds, are creating innovative solutions to local problems. The stories of everyday courage and perseverance remind us of the true spirit of Edo State—a spirit that no amount of misgovernance can extinguish,” he said.
With the upcoming election on September 21, 2024, Akpata urged citizens to seize the moment and bring about a new beginning for Edo State.
He said the election is a turning point, giving the people a chance to reject the broken promises of the past and vote for real change.
“It is this indomitable spirit that we must now channel into charting a new course for our state. In just 23 days, on September 21, 2024, we stand at a critical crossroads. In 23 days, we have the power to rewrite the story of our state to cast aside the failures of the past and vote for a future that truly reflects the greatness of our people.
“This election is more than a political contest; it is a battle for the soul of Edo State. It is a choice between continuing down the path of unfulfilled promises and embarking on a journey of genuine transformation,” he stressed.
Akpata acknowledged that the road ahead would not be easy, but assured that the potential rewards far outweigh the challenges.
He called on the people of Edo to unite in building a state where opportunities flourish, innovation thrives, and prosperity is accessible to everyone.
“Together, we can transform Edo State into a land of opportunity, where every citizen has the chance to reach their full potential. We can create a state where our children no longer dream of escaping abroad but aspire to build their futures right here at home. A state where innovation thrives, where small businesses flourish, and where our natural and human resources are leveraged to create sustainable wealth for all.
“Together, we can build an Edo State that will give us genuine reasons to celebrate in the years to come. A state where progress is not measured by the wealth of a few but by the well-being of all. The task ahead is enormous, but so is our capacity to meet it. The history of Edo State is replete with stories of triumph over adversity, and I have no doubt that we will rise to this occasion once again,” Akpata concluded, expressing confidence that Edo State can once again triumph over adversity.
This statement comes as the Edo gubernatorial election draws closer, with Akpata also recently accusing PDP supporters of vandalizing his campaign billboards.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reported that 184,438 voters have been newly registered ahead of the September 21 election.