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Understanding Why Edo People May Reject Obaseki And His Godson Ighodalo As Campaign Intensifies

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2 years ago

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Understanding Why Edo People May Reject Obaseki And His Godson Ighodalo As Campaign IntensifiesAs Governor Godwin Obaseki’s tenure nears its conclusion, he faces a critical juncture in his political journey. The ongoing tensions with the Benin Kingdom present a formidable challenge to the aspirations of his godson and anointed successor, Asue Ighodalo.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Allegations have surfaced suggesting that two enigies dragged His Royal Majesty, The Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, to court, purportedly with Obaseki’s support. These disputes with the Royal Kingdom have ignited controversy, with many viewing Obaseki’s involvement as a betrayal of the cultural heritage of the Benin people.

In Edo South, the epicenter of the ancient Benin Kingdom and home to the largest number of registered voters in the state, sentiments indicate a potential loss of support for Obaseki. The people here not only hold deep reverence for the Oba but also regard him as a source of inspiration and a symbol of cultural heritage.

Unfortunately, Obaseki’s anointed successor, Asue Ighodalo, has indicated a willingness to continue Obaseki’s governance style. This has fueled concerns that Ighodalo’s leadership could perpetuate the perceived disrespect towards the Royal Kingdom attributed to Obaseki’s tenure.

Furthermore, the people have voiced concerns regarding Ighodalo’s governance should he be elected. They fear:

Perceived Continuation of Obaseki’s Governance Style: If Ighodalo vows to continue Obaseki’s style of governance, as suggested by Ighodalo, it could be a significant factor in the Edo people’s rejection. If they are dissatisfied with Obaseki’s leadership, they may not want a continuation of the same policies and practices.

Association with Obaseki’s Alleged Actions: As Obaseki’s godson and chosen successor, Ighodalo may be perceived as closely associated with Obaseki’s alleged actions, such as the conflict with the Benin Kingdom. Even if Ighodalo himself did not directly participate in these actions, his association with Obaseki could lead to guilt by association in the eyes of the electorate.

Concerns about Autonomy and Independence: If Ighodalo is seen as merely a puppet or stooge of Obaseki, with little autonomy or independence in decision-making, the Edo people may reject him. They might prefer a leader who demonstrates strong leadership qualities and is not perceived as being controlled by others.

Distrust of Political Succession: In Nigerian politics, the concept of “godfatherism” is often met with skepticism and distrust. If Ighodalo is perceived as being imposed upon the people by Obaseki or other political figures, rather than being chosen through a democratic process, it could lead to rejection by the electorate who value independence and self-determination.

These concerns, coupled with the existing tensions with the Benin Kingdom, paint a complex picture of the challenges facing Obaseki and Ighodalo as they navigate the campaign landscape in Edo State.

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Chairman and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.

Source Bush Radio.

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TERROR FINANCING ALLEGATIONS: EFCC Drags Miyetti Allah Leader To Court In Multi-Million Dollar Probe!.

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11 hours ago

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July 9, 2026

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  • Bello Bodejo, the National President of Miyetti Allah Kauta Kore, was arraigned at the Federal High Court in Abuja on Thursday to face charges related to an alleged $2.63 million money laundering scheme.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

    • In addition to money laundering, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has accused Bodejo of financing terrorism.

    • Bodejo is the sole defendant named in the 12-count charge, which was filed in late June 2026.

    Allegations and Plea

    • The EFCC alleges that Bodejo accepted various large cash payments in U.S. dollars from Sa’idu Abubakar, including $100,000 in January 2022, $200,000 later that month, $980,000 in February 2024, and $500,000 in March 2024.

    • The agency specifically charged Bodejo with willfully accepting these large cash payments without utilizing a financial institution, as mandated by law, and possessing funds suspected to be linked to unlawful activities.

    • During the hearing before Justice Inyang Ekwo, Bodejo entered a plea of not guilty after the 12-count charge was read to him.

    • Legal counsel for both the prosecution (Wahab Shittu, SAN) and the defense (Ahmed Raji, SAN) were present, with the defense offering no opposition to the plea proceedings.

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“THEY DON’T LIKE ME!”: FCT Minister Nyesom Wike Exposes Tense Relationship With Civil Servants!.

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11 hours ago

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July 9, 2026

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  • FCT Minister Nyesom Wike stated during a monthly media chat in Abuja that he is unpopular among civil servants.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

    • He attributed this lack of popularity to his efforts to shut down channels for the fraudulent diversion of public funds, explaining that money previously misappropriated by staff is now being redirected toward road infrastructure.

    Reasons for Friction

    • The Minister criticized the habit of approving funds for unnecessary activities, such as traveling to conferences in the United States for land administration, suggesting that staff should instead conduct research locally.

    • Wike highlighted a significant shift in budget management, noting that he reduced recurrent expenditure in favor of capital expenditure, moving from a system where recurrent spending accounted for 65 percent of the budget to one where capital projects now receive 70 percent of funding.

    • He maintained that he will not approve large sums for “frivolous” conferences, choosing instead to prioritize infrastructure projects that provide tangible benefits to the public.

    • Conclusively, Wike asserted that because he puts money into roads rather than funding these conferences—which he described as vehicles for corruption—he does not expect to be liked by the civil service workforce.

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STUDENT LOAN BONANZA: ₦1.5 Billion Hits 6,129 Student Accounts In Massive NELFUND Payout!.

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11 hours ago

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July 9, 2026

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  • The Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has released a total of ₦1,501,935,800 to 6,129 students for the 2025/2026 academic session.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

    • This update was shared by NELFUND on Thursday through its verified handle.

    • The initiative is part of the Federal Government’s effort to increase access to higher education by lessening the financial pressure on students and their families.

    Breakdown by Institution

    • Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology (BOUESTI): Received ₦1,360,920,800 for 5,396 students across five tranches.

    • Sikiru Adetona College of Education, Science and Technology: Received ₦104,530,000 for 680 students.

    • Edo State College of Nursing Sciences: Received ₦36,485,000 for 53 students.

    Institutional Confirmation and Feedback

    • All three institutions have officially acknowledged receipt of the funds.

    • Dr. Bukola Makinde, Registrar of Sikiru Adetona College, confirmed that the funds have already been credited to the students’ bank accounts, noting that this support will facilitate “hitch-free academic progress”.

    • Mabel Omobude, Provost of the Edo State College of Nursing Sciences, pledged transparency and stated that the funds will be applied strictly for their intended educational purposes.

    • Prof. Andrew Babatunde Omojola, Vice-Chancellor of BOUESTI, commended the Federal Government and NELFUND for their efficiency in managing and releasing the funds.

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