(FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE)
Edo State, Nigeria – July 26, 2024 – In an unprecedented move that has left many scratching their heads, Governor Godwin Obaseki is allegedly gearing up to take a fresh loan few weeks to Edo election.
This time, the Governor’s motivations are particularly concerning, as the funds are allegedly intended to prop up the floundering campaign of his chosen successor, Asue Ighodalo.
Sources within the Edo State House of Assembly (EDHA) have disclosed that Governor Obaseki is on the brink of finalising a grand scheme to secure fresh loans, purportedly from China.
The Governor has initiated a frantic lobbying effort to grease the wheels in the Assembly, pushing for a swift approval of this debt-laden plan.
Reports suggest that the agreements could be signed at any moment, a scenario that has triggered alarm bells ringing across the state.
The urgency of this loan request begs the question: what exactly are Governor Obaseki’s priorities? Edo State’s critical sectors – healthcare, education, and infrastructure – are in desperate need of attention and investment.
Yet, rather than addressing these pressing issues, the Governor seems more interested in saddling the state with additional debt to bankroll an election campaign.
A senior member of the EDHA, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the Governor is aggressively courting assembly members to expedite the approval process.
The aim? To funnel resources into Ighodalo’s struggling campaign, which has reportedly run aground due to a severe fundraising drought.
This development couldn’t come at a worse time for Edo State. As essential services and infrastructure continue to deteriorate, the notion of incurring more debt is not just imprudent – it’s downright reckless.
Governor Obaseki’s apparent willingness to prioritise electioneering over the well-being of the state’s residents is a stark reminder of his misplaced priorities.
We call on Governor Obaseki to rethink his strategy and place the needs of Edo State above personal political ambitions.
Taking on additional debt to finance an election campaign is not in the best interest of the people of Edo State.
The APC remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting good governance, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable development for the betterment of all Edo citizens.
E-Signed:
Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah
Director, APC New Media Directorate
APC Campaign Council, Edo 2024 Governorship Election