Adams Oshiomhole on Edo Gubernatorial Elections: Why Asue Ighodalo Was Bound to Fail
In the wake of the recent gubernatorial elections in Edo State, former governor Adams Oshiomhole has voiced his views on why the candidate backed by Governor Godwin Obaseki stood no chance of winning. Speaking during an interview with ARISE NEWS, Oshiomhole explained that the failure of Obaseki’s administration contributed heavily to the defeat of his chosen successor, Asue Ighodalo.
Oshiomhole argued that Obaseki’s governance had left Edo voters deeply dissatisfied, stating, “Obaseki misgoverned the state and betrayed the trust of the people. His candidate was bound to lose because there was nothing positive for voters to hold on to from Obaseki’s time in office.”
Failed Endorsement and Lost Credibility
According to Oshiomhole, Obaseki’s endorsement of Ighodalo carried little weight due to his own poor performance as governor. “Obaseki, who crushed his political opponents and broke alliances with key stakeholders, found himself abandoned by those who once supported him,” Oshiomhole remarked.
The former governor further explained that the governor’s inability to keep his promises and his confrontational leadership style led to widespread disillusionment. “Even the royal father, who Obaseki fought with, had distanced himself. The governor fought everyone, and that made his candidate unelectable.”
Election Observers’ Criticism Rejected
Addressing criticisms from election observers who raised concerns about the fairness of the elections, Oshiomhole dismissed these claims, asserting that observers had a limited understanding of the process. “Observers are just that—observers. Their perception may not always align with reality. INEC was on the ground at every polling unit, and they are more credible than any observer’s opinion,” he stated confidently.
Oshiomhole emphasized that the defeat of Obaseki’s candidate, Ighodalo, was a natural outcome, given the governor’s inability to maintain a positive reputation with the people of Edo. “Obaseki’s candidate was destined to fail. The voters wanted change, and they rejected Obaseki’s leadership,” he concluded.
A New Era for Edo Politics
As the state prepares to welcome its newly elected governor, Monday Okpebholo, Oshiomhole expressed optimism about the future. “I believe that Edo will see a different kind of leadership under Okpebholo. We don’t need arrogant people in government, and that’s why I backed him,” he stated.
In response to questions about Okpebholo’s relatively low media presence during the campaign, Oshiomhole retorted, “Only Edo voters can decide who they want as governor. The media presence doesn’t dictate who wins—it’s the people who decide.”
Conclusion
Oshiomhole’s candid remarks in the interview highlight the political shifts in Edo State and the growing discontent with Obaseki’s tenure. As the state moves forward under new leadership, the election results signal a rejection of the previous administration and a desire for change among the electorate.
