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Understanding Why Edo People May Reject Obaseki And His Godson Ighodalo As Campaign Intensifies
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.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, says the state has mapped out 22,435 hectares of degraded land for restoration under the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project using modern geospatial mapping technology.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
He said the initiative is part of efforts to strengthen climate resilience, tackle environmental degradation, and promote sustainable land use in the state.
Speaking at the ACReSAL mid-term review meeting in Kaduna through the Commissioner for Environment and Natural Resources, Abubakar Buba, the governor explained that the use of geospatial tools has made it possible to accurately identify affected areas for targeted intervention.
He added that the project is not only focused on land recovery but also on boosting agricultural output and improving livelihoods in affected communities.
Sani also noted that the state is supporting the programme with empowerment initiatives, including training over 500 women, youths, and school feeding vendors in biomass briquette production.
According to him, the effort is already helping to reduce dependence on firewood while creating alternative sources of income for beneficiaries.
President Tinubu has given full backing for the implementation of the ₦68.32 trillion 2026 budget after signing the Appropriation Bill passed by the National Assembly into law.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
He also approved an amendment extending the lifespan of the 2025 budget from March 31 to June 30, 2026, to ensure completion of ongoing capital projects nationwide.
Under the 2026 fiscal plan, ₦4.799 trillion is set aside for statutory transfers, ₦15.8 trillion for debt servicing, ₦15.4 trillion for recurrent spending, while ₦32.2 trillion goes to capital projects—about half of the total budget.
The focus, according to the administration, is on infrastructure development, security, and growth-driven investments aimed at improving living standards.
Speaking on the development, presidential aide Bayo Onanuga said the extension of the 2025 budget will help ensure full use of allocated funds, especially for major ongoing projects.
Tinubu directed all ministries, departments, and agencies to ensure transparency, discipline, and value-for-money in implementing the budget, while praising the National Assembly for its swift passage of the bill.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to economic reforms, revenue growth, job creation, and social welfare improvements.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Kwara State has described moves to prosecute former Senate President Bukola Saraki and former Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed over alleged culpable homicide as an attempt to reopen the 2018 Offa robbery tragedy for political purposes.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a statement on Friday, the party’s spokesperson, Olusegun Adewara, said the development is a disturbing and dangerous politicisation of a case they claim has already been addressed through judicial processes.
He warned against dragging the state into fresh tension, accusing the state government of attempting to revive old allegations for political advantage.
Adewara said the PDP would not remain silent while what he called “political narratives” are used to influence public perception around a tragic incident that claimed multiple lives in Offa in 2018.
He also urged residents, especially affected families, not to allow their pain to be used for political gains, insisting it is unjust to associate Saraki with the crime.
The party further alleged that the move is aimed at distracting attention from governance challenges in the state.
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