….Unveiling the Dark Horse – Osagie Ogbemudia’s Ascent
As the political landscape in Edo State gears up for the 2024 Governorship elections, contenders from various parties vie for the spotlight. While the contest is anticipated to be a three-horse race among the major political players – PDP, APC, and the emerging force, Labour Party (LP) – the real intrigue lies in the emergence of dark horse Osagie Ogbemudia.
Osagie Ogbemudia: A Beacon of Change
In the midst of political buzz, Osagie Ogbemudia, a seasoned public servant, has quietly positioned himself at the forefront of the Labour Party’s gubernatorial aspirations. With a distinguished 24-year career, Ogbemudia’s unique journey spans his role as a serving police officer in Canada and his commitment to community empowerment through overseeing a local security firm employing over 300 youths in Edo.
A Visionary Agenda Unveiled:
Ogbemudia’s candidacy transcends routine politics. His visionary agenda, rooted in extensive public service experience, advocates for a nuanced governance approach inspired by the Canadian model. Addressing Edo’s challenges head-on, Ogbemudia’s strategy tackles poverty and untapped tourism potential, making security a linchpin for progress. His comprehensive plan envisions revitalizing the state’s agricultural sector and establishing a Diaspora Desk for global collaboration.
As the elections approach, Ogbemudia’s distinguished career and transformative vision position him as a beacon of change for Edo State, challenging the traditional political landscape. In a race marked by established contenders, Osagie Ogbemudia emerges as the dark horse, ready to reshape Edo’s future with a fresh perspective and unwavering commitment to progress.
The race for Edo’s gubernatorial seat in 2024 is shaping up to be a three-horse battle, with the PDP, APC, and the Labour Party (LP) as the key players. As the political landscape heats up, contenders from various senatorial districts are vying for the coveted position. Here’s a glimpse of some prominent aspirants:
Labour Party (LP) Aspirants:
- Osagie Ogbemudia, with a remarkable 24-year career and a background as a police officer in Canada, emerges as a transformative figure in Edo State politics. Leading the Labour Party’s gubernatorial aspirations, Ogbemudia’s visionary agenda, influenced by the Canadian model, focuses on key issues such as security, agriculture, and global collaboration. His commitment to community empowerment and a fresh perspective make him a dark horse in the upcoming 2024 elections, challenging traditional politics and offering a beacon of change for Edo’s future.
- Barrister Kenneth Imansuangbon: A popular politician, administrator, and philanthropist from Edo Central, Imansuangbon’s experience, acceptability, and competence position him as a strong LP aspirant.
- Barrister Olumide Akpata: Former NBA president, Akpata, from Edo South, entered politics recently and officially joined the LP. Speculations suggest he enjoys the backing of Governor Obaseki.
- Dorry Okojie: A newcomer in Edo politics, Okojie, a realtor and businessman, expresses early interest in the LP ticket. Extensive billboard presence signals his determination.
Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Aspirants:
- Barrister Asuen Ighodalo: Chairman of Sterling Bank Plc, Ighodalo emerges as a potential choice for Governor Obaseki’s successor. However, his non-political background and the influence of the legacy group led by Dan Orbih could pose challenges.
- Comrade Philip Shaibu: The current deputy governor seeks the PDP ticket from Edo North, overcoming recent tensions with Governor Obaseki. His reputation as a team player and local support positions him as a strong contender.
- Hon John Yakubu: Former chairman of Esan Northeast local government council, Yakubu relies on his past records and experience as Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu’s running mate in 2016 to secure the PDP ticket.
All Progressives Congress (APC) Aspirants:
- Sen Monday Okpebholo: Known as ‘Akpakomiza,’ Sen Okpebholo, the Senate Committee on Public Procurement chairman, boasts grassroots support and financial strength. His ability to garner bipartisan support secured his victory in a predominantly PDP-controlled Edo Central.
- Sen Oserhiemen Osunbor: A former governor of Edo State and a law professor, Osunbor’s candidacy is viewed favorably by some due to his previous leadership. However, his age raises concerns among the younger generation.
- Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu: Familiar in APC and Edo politics, Ize-Iyamu, from Edo South, awaits a presidential nod before publicly declaring his intentions. His entry could shake up the political landscape.
- Hon Dennis Idahosa: Representing Ovia federal constituency, Idahosa, a young lawmaker, is gaining attention in Edo South senatorial district. His contributions in the House of Representatives make him a contender.
- Prince Clem Agba: The immediate past minister of State, Budget and National Planning, Agba, from Edo North, aligns himself with Senator Adams Oshiomhole’s influence to secure the APC ticket.
- Maj Gen Charles Airhiavbere (rtd): Former executive director, Finance and Administration, of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Airhiavbere eyes the APC ticket with visible campaign billboards across the state.
The battle lines are drawn, and as the parties prepare for primaries in February 2024, Edo’s political landscape awaits the emergence of the flag bearers who will vie for the state’s leadership.
