In the wake of the recent gubernatorial election in Edo State, a new wave of tension has erupted regarding the upcoming senatorial election in the Edo Central Senatorial District, which seeks to fill the seat vacated by Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Okpebholo, who previously represented the district under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has sparked significant political maneuvering among party members, with at least 12 aspirants vying for the APC ticket.
Rumors are rife within the party about a potential plot by APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje and Okpebholo to nominate Mr. Odianosen Henry Okojie, currently serving as a House of Representatives member for Esan North East and Esan South East, as the party’s candidate.
Reports suggest that Okojie is leveraging his connections in Abuja to persuade Ganduje and Okpebholo to bypass standard nomination processes, asserting that his ties could secure him the candidacy.
Amidst growing concerns within the party regarding Okojie’s potential nomination, the Esan Renaissance Movement (ERM) has formally petitioned Ganduje and Okpebholo, highlighting their discontent with the situation.
The ERM’s statement, authored by President Agbonkhese Osezua and Secretary Napoleon Ironosen, points to Gbajabiamila and Tunji-Ojo as key figures behind Okojie’s promotion and urges them to refrain from meddling in the nomination process.
The group emphasized the need for Ganduje and Okpebholo to resist any forms of intimidation or manipulation that may arise from Okojie’s supporters, advocating for a fair selection process to identify a credible candidate.
The ERM expressed concerns about Okojie’s qualifications, describing him as the least suitable candidate among the aspirants. They argue that he has not effectively represented his constituents in the House and has utilized tactics of intimidation and blackmail for personal gain.
The petitioners urged the national leadership of the APC to be cautious about backing Okojie, asserting that he lacks the viability required to succeed in the senatorial race.
Moreover, they advised Governor Okpebholo to dissociate himself from Okojie to maintain his credibility among the people of Esanland.
In concluding their statement, the ERM called for a democratic process within the APC that would allow party members in Edo Central to freely elect their candidate, rather than having decisions imposed from outside the state. They reiterated that Okojie’s candidacy would not serve the interests of the district.
