A socio-political organization rooted in Benin has rallied behind the gubernatorial contender from the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Monday Okpebhole, stating that Edo State craves tangible action beyond mere rhetoric following September 21.
In a statement to journalists yesterday in Benin City, Kensington Uwadia, founder of the Society for Benin Moats and Artefacts, highlighted the reserved nature of Okpebholo, the representative for Edo Central, emphasizing his preference for brevity in speech.
‘Okpebholo believes action speaks louder than voice. I have known him for many years, and he has demonstrated that in many high-level boardroom situations. Edo State has experimented with professors, doctors, technocrats, and others, yet they have all disappointed us.
‘Among those who have taken the state to enviable position was Samuel Ogbemudia. He did not speak grammar in government house but performed creditably well.
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‘This narrative that Okpebholo is not speaking big English should be put to shreds. A man who single-handedly raised a multi-billionaire company in Nigeria does not need any other testament to prove his worth.’
According to Uwadia, Okpebholo’s gubernatorial agenda would prioritize the revitalization and enhancement of the Benin Moat and other significant traditional landmarks.
‘I am aware tourism is one of his major areas of interest. This is the first time we have a governor who wants to revive and sell Edo heritage to the world. He does not need big grammar to do that but the ability to manage men and resources. In 2016, when Godwin Obaseki became governor, the people were all carried away with the big grammar and the suits and tie. Today, where are we? What has gone better? Nothing.
‘A man who was able to defeat a sitting Peoples Democratic Party senator in Esanland and clinch the governorship ticket in APC all by himself surely has something to offer in politics,’ Uwadia said.
Earlier this week, Okpebholo, fondly referred to as Akpakomisa, was handed the APC flag by President Bola Tinubu at Aso Rock, Abuja. Okpebholo, joined by his running mate, Dennis Idahosa, made assurances of tackling security issues and advancing infrastructure if entrusted with leadership.
President Tinubu, for his part, pledged his full backing to them throughout the electoral process.