By AKPAKOMIZA Media
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State Monday witnessed a massive show of support during its campaign in several wards of Ovia North East LGA.
The turnout which can be likened to a local government rally, underscored the overwhelming backing for Senator Monday Okpebholo and Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
The campaign began in Ward 07 and Ward 08 (Uhiere and Isiuwa) and continued to Adolor Ward 04 and Okokhuo Ward 09 in Ekiadolor.
The campaign team also visited Oluku Market, Oluku Ward, and Uselu Market.
The Director General of the APC Governorship Campaign Council, Senator Matthew Urhoghide, expressed gratitude to the large crowd for their support for Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa and the APC.
Urhoghide stated, “Everyone that matters in Benin today, both in politics and outside of it, is supporting Senator Monday Okpebholo and Hon. Dennis Idahosa. Your support is absolutely on the right track.”
Hon. Omosede Igbinedion, addressed the gathering and highlighted the “Ovia Agenda” akin to the “Esan Agenda,” and emphasised the importance of electing an Ovia son as Deputy Governor to spur development in the region.
She voiced her full support for Hon. Dennis Idahosa, stating, “This is why I am backing my brother, Hon. Dennis Idahosa.
“Ovia must be developed and that development can only come when we have an Ovia person as Deputy Governor.”
Hon. Dennis Idahosa, in his remarks, assured his constituents that his presence was not for campaign purposes, as Ovia is his home.
He stated, “I know you are satisfied with my work as your representative. I have even exceeded the expectations of the people of Ovia. I am proudly a son of Ovia and Benin Kingdom, unlike Asue Ighodalo, who cannot speak his language.
“I urge you to continue spreading the word about us until Edo is liberated on September 21, 2024.”
Former Governor Adams Oshiomhole also addressed the gathering and emphasised the need for practical governance, which he believes can only be achieved with Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Oshiomhole took the opportunity to respond to critics within the PDP on his recent statement, saying, “Trouble dey sleep, yangan go wake am” (Don’t stir up trouble unnecessarily).
He further warned, “If anyone dares to attack Senator Monday Okpebholo, I will respond ten-fold.”
Sen. Monday Okpebholo outlined his five-point agenda, stressed the urgent need to employ over 5,000 teachers in Edo State schools, where the current staffing levels are severely inadequate.
He also highlighted the need to address insecurity, particularly the issue of kidnappers operating in the forests of Ovia.
During a visit to the dilapidated Ebomisi Secondary School in Ugbogiobo, Ovia North East, Okpebholo criticised the state of the school and questioned the much-touted “EdoBest” program of Gov. Obaseki.
He assured the youth of the community that the school’s rehabilitation would be a top priority once he assumes office.
As he moved from market to market, he promised the market women that his administration would end the imposition of unnecessary levies and provide soft loans to boost their businesses.
The reception of Okpebholo/Idahosa by Edo people speaks volumes of the imminent victory for the APC in Edo2024.
