A group, Okpebholo Change Movement, has explained why the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has not chosen to run from pillar to post with his work plan for the development of Edo State.
‘’Edo requires a governor with sound vision, dedication and focus, one who will bring his ingenuity to bear in the management of the state’s economic potential and the natural endowments. In Edo State today, there is growing fervor for what Senator Monday Okpebholo stands for. More than ever before, the people of the state have come to recognize the fact that the APC candidate is a huge asset to them’’
The group noted that empty vessel makes the greatest noise.
‘’Monday Okpebholo did not come crashing into the political scene. He has cut the image of a well-focused, incisive and inspiring statesman. The APC governorship candidate knows the political terrain and will provide good leadership and turn the fortunes of Edo State around positively. ’’
The group in a statement on Monday in Benin said that if a ruling party had proved its worth before the Edo electorate, it doesn’t need to use foul language on opponents or run on empty manifesto before the people could renew the mandate of the party.
‘’It is becoming evident that the people of Edo State, including PDP and LP supporters, have made up their minds to support Senator Monday Okpebholo’’
The statement signed by the spokesperson of OKpebholo Change Movement, Dr. Francis Aghahowa described the so-called PDP manifesto as mission in futility and rehearse of old tunes.
‘’In their campaigns, there is no fascination. Our people have made it clear that things must change, the status quo cannot continue, our state is in danger’’
The group expressed regrets about the way the resources in the state were allegedly being frittered away by the government.
‘’Senator Monday Okpebholo is a selfless, caring and compassionate person, who thinks of others first before himself. He will rebuild Edo State, put in place broad-based and inclusive government, pay adequate attention to interests that will assist in the overall development of the state and spread social and infrastructural amenities in Edo State. In making appointment, Okpebholo will take the entire geography of the state into consideration and give the people of Edo State the God intended confidence, economic empowerment and security’’
The group vowed to work with all determination, courage, commitment and due respect for the rule of law to ensure the candidate’s victory.
‘’We need to invest more in Okpebholo. We need to give him the chance to ensure effective and gainful farming, steady economic growth, boom in economic activities, the presence of genuine foreign investors and large industrial parks in the state’’
The statement listed education, health, security, food production, sports, roads rehabilitation and construction, tourism, salaries and pension as key areas of the next administration.
‘Senator Monday Okpebholo will encourage the people to invest and own shares in government-oriented projects and businesses’’