Abuja, Nigeria – A rift has emerged between Governor Monday Okpebholo and Edo South leaders, who have accused him of tribal bigotry. The leaders claim that the governor has shown favoritism towards Edo North and his region of Edo Central in appointments and allocation of resources.
The leaders sited governor Okpebholo’s reckless executive bill to the State House of Assembly that increased the numbers of members of Edo State Oil and Gas Producing Areas Development Commission (EDSOPADEC) from seven to ten members to pave the way for the appointments of two Commissioners each from Edo North and Central Senatorial Districts that are not oil producing District against the law that established the Commission.
Allegations of Marginalization
The Edo South leaders further expressed disappointment and frustration with the governor’s actions, which they believe are deliberately aimed at marginalizing their region. They cited instances where they claim Edo South has been excluded from other key decision-making processes and resource allocation.
Division within Edo South Leadership
However, sources close to the governor told Standarddailypress.com that Edo South leadership is divided, with some members having received contracts, SUVs vehicles, and lucrative political appointments. Those in the governor’s camp argue that Edo South voted against the governor in last year’s election and shouldn’t complain of marginalization. They point out that the highest votes came from Edo North, suggesting that the governor’s actions are a response to the electoral dynamics.
Governor’s Response
The governor’s office has yet to respond to the allegations. However, insiders suggest that the administration will continue to prioritize merit and competence in appointments and resource allocation since Edo South leaders have selfishly and shamelessly adopted divide and rule tactics.
Sources in Osasebe Avenue, Edo State seat of power revealed that Lawrence Okah, the APC State Secretary has cornered many political appointments for Edo South party members, including his son’s appointment, Mr. Uwa Okah Lawrence. Edo South leader, Mr. Benson Edosomwan was also accused of nominating his biological son, Mr. Edosomwan Kelvin Iredia while persons allegedly took bullets for Governor Okpebholo have been abandoned. The former Senator Mathew Urohide is not left out of the charge of personalization of Edo South political appointments. His son Mr. Eghosa Urohide was also appointment as the Government House ICT Director as against more qualified party faithful who have no political fathers to push for their appointments.
Implications
The rift between the governor and Edo South leaders may have implications for the state’s development and stability. Edo South is the hotbed for cultism and land disputes. Majority of the jobless youths who supported Governor Okpebholo’s governorship election has been frustrated by the antics of their leaders and the governor’s refusal to engage them directly without passing through their greedy leaders.
Reactions from Stakeholders
Stakeholders in Edo State are watching the situation closely, with some calling for calm and dialogue between the governor and Edo South leaders. Others are demanding that the governor prioritizes the needs of all regions in the state, regardless of political affiliations or geographical origins. It remains to be seen how this controversy will unfold and what impact it will have on the state’s progress
Okpebholo’s Rutherlessness
Nearly 10 months into his administration, Governor Monday Okpebholo has been unable to form complete cabinet, instead relying on adhockism. Insider sources told Standarddailypress.com that the riff within the APC leadership structures that caged the governor has been responsible for his inability to form his cabinet.
The controversy surrounding Governor Okpebholo’s alleged tribal bigotry and insensitive have ignited a heated debate in Edo State. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential for all stakeholders to prioritize the state’s development and stability beyond personal gains.
