By METROWATCH
The APC’s campaign trail made a notable stop in Orhionmwon Local Government Area, where a sea of supporters gathered to cheer the party and its candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, aka Akpakomiza.
The rallies, which covered Igbanke and Abudu wards, transformed into a state-wide event, which depicted the strength of the APC in Orhionmwon.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu praised the achievements of former Governor Adams Oshiomhole, and highlighted his contributions to Igbanke, where he constructed roads and provided electricity.
“Oshiomhole did well in his time for Igbanke people, and Akpakomiza will do far better,” Ize-Iyamu assured the supporters.
Hon. Peter Atu emphasised that the PDP has never won in Igbanke and expressed confidence that they will not start now.
He underscored the loyalty of Igbanke to the APC, asserting that the community’s trust lies with the party that has consistently delivered on its promises.
Echoing this sentiment, Hon. Abubakar Momoh highlighted the APC’s ongoing commitment to Igbanke, revealed that he has secured a health centre for the community in the 2024 budget.
“My ministry will construct roads in Igbanke, and if Senator Monday Okpebholo is voted in, the state government will do even more,” Momoh pledged.
Sen. Matthew Urhokhide took the stage to remind the crowd that every significant infrastructural project in Igbanke has been delivered by the APC. “I built a school in this community, and Oshiomhole constructed the roads and provided light,” Urhokhide stated. “What has the PDP done? If you vote for the APC, you are sure of more projects.”
Akpakomiza himself took the opportunity to outline his vision for Edo State, promised to employ over 5,000 teachers within his first 100 days in office if elected governor.
He also committed to complet the two abandoned roads in Igbanke and build a much-needed hospital for the community.
“If you vote for me, I will give you back the power,” Akpakomiza declared, and vowed to make life meaningful for all Edo citizens.
The rally in Abudu was equally terrific, with Sen. Urhokhide emphasising Akpakomiza’s historic achievement as the first APC Senator from Esan since 1999.
“He became a senator because of the work he has done for the Esan people, provided security vehicles, water, roads, transformers, and more,” Urhokhide said.
He challenged the PDP’s performance, asking, “What has Obaseki done for Abudu?” The crowd’s resounding “Nothing” echoed through the venue, reinforced the dissatisfaction with the current administration.
Sen. Monday Okpebholo addressed the issue of inadequate infrastructure in Abudu, promising to provide light, water, and a primary health center under his government. “We are coming to make life meaningful for all Edo citizens,” he declared.
The rally reached its climax when Mr. Israel led over 200 individuals in defecting from the PDP to the APC.
He cited the impactful works of Oshiomhole and Urhokhide in Abudu and expressed frustration with the lack of progress under the current government as the primary reasons for their decision.
The APC’s campaign in Orhionmwon LGA has clearly struck a chord with the people, and prepared the stage for a decisive victory in the upcoming elections.
