special report;The Race for Edo State Governorship: A Reflection of Discontent and a Quest for Change
By; Al Humphrey Onyanabo
Edo State, situated in the southern region of Nigeria, has become a focal point in the political landscape due to the high number of aspirants vying for the position of governor. With over 120 individuals throwing their hats into the electoral ring, political pundits are attributing this unprecedented interest to the perceived failure of the outgoing Governor, Godwin Obaseki, in delivering on vital areas such as tourism development, youth empowerment, industrialization, education, and infrastructural development. This article delves into the reasons behind the surge of aspirants and the potential implications for the state’s political future.
Disappointment in Obaseki’s Administration:
Godwin Obaseki, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), assumed office as the Governor of Edo State with high hopes and expectations. However, his tenure has been marred by criticism and disillusionment from various stakeholders. Several key areas have been identified where the outgoing governor fell short, leading to a growing discontent among the citizens.
Tourism Development:
One of the areas where Obaseki’s administration faced criticism was in the development of the tourism sector. Edo State is rich in cultural and historical heritage, making it a potential hub for tourism. However, many argue that the government failed to leverage these assets effectively, resulting in missed opportunities for economic growth and job creation.
Youth Empowerment and Industrialization:
Unemployment remains a pressing issue in Edo State, with a significant proportion of its population being youths. The Obaseki administration promised robust youth empowerment programs and a focus on industrialization to create jobs. However, critics argue that tangible progress in this regard has been lacking, leading to frustration and a desire for change.
Education and Infrastructural Development:
Another area of concern is the state’s education sector and basic infrastructure. Critics have pointed out the deterioration of educational institutions, inadequate facilities, and a lack of investment in educational programs. Moreover, the state’s infrastructure, including roads, power supply, and healthcare facilities, has not witnessed significant improvements under Obaseki’s tenure, further fueling discontent.
The Surge of Aspirants:
The overwhelming number of aspirants seeking the gubernatorial position reflects the collective dissatisfaction with Obaseki’s performance. The perceived failure of the administration to address critical issues vital for the state’s progress has created an atmosphere of political restlessness. Aspirants from various parties and backgrounds see an opportunity to bring about the change they believe Edo State desperately needs.
Implications for the State’s Political Future:
The multitude of aspirants vying for the governorship position presents both challenges and opportunities for Edo State’s political future. On one hand, such a large number of candidates could lead to a divided voter base, making it difficult to achieve consensus and ultimately weakening the state’s political stability. On the other hand, this surge might indicate a healthy democratic process where citizens are actively engaging with political discourse and demanding accountability from their elected leaders.
The upcoming elections will serve as a battleground for showcasing alternative visions and strategies to address the shortcomings of the previous administration. It remains to be seen which candidate will capture the trust and aspirations of the electorate, promising a path towards robust and comprehensive development in Edo State
Conclusion:
The unprecedented number of aspirants vying for the governorship position in Edo State is a reflection of widespread disappointment with the outgoing Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and his administration’s perceived failure to deliver in vital areas such as tourism development, youth empowerment, industrialization, education, and infrastructural development. This surge underscores the desire for change among the electorate and the necessity for a robust political discourse that addresses these critical issues. The forthcoming elections will be a defining moment for Edo State, shaping its political landscape and determining the path towards progress and development.
Al Humphrey Onyanabo ( The StoryTeller)
Tel ; +2347054674906
Email; nigeria360online @gmail.com
