On Saturday, APC National Chairman Dr. Umar Ganduje inaugurated the party’s national campaign council for the 2024 Edo governorship election, led by Cross River Governor Bassey Ottu. Ganduje urged the council to ensure APC reclaims the state from the PDP in the September 21 election.
Ganduje celebrated the defection of Edo Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu to APC, asserting the party now holds sway over half of the state’s government. He emphasized the importance of grassroots mobilization and announced an upcoming rally featuring President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Benin City.
Highlighting the APC’s readiness, Ganduje praised the party’s blueprint for Edo’s development. He criticized the current administration’s focus on MoUs over practical steps and stressed the need for Edo to align with the federal government for full political participation and democratic dividends.
Ganduje endorsed APC candidates Sen. Monday Okpebholo and Dennis Idahosa, promising respect and appreciation for the traditional council under the Oba of Benin. Sen. Okpebholo condemned Governor Godwin Obaseki for escalating the state’s debt from ₦43 billion in 2016 to over ₦500 billion and pledged to restore infrastructure, education, and security.
Former Edo Governor Sen. Adams Oshiomhole highlighted the importance of APC’s governance, contrasting it with PDP’s rule. He urged Edo residents to compare the parties’ records and reaffirmed the principle of one-man-one-vote.
Addressing the killing of police aide Insp. Onu Akon, Oshiomhole called for a thorough investigation and demanded the disbandment of the State Security Network, accusing it of being an oppressive tool.
Campaign Council Chairman Gov. Ottu vowed to secure victory for APC in Edo come September 21.
