Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the upcoming September 21, 2024, governorship election in Edo State, has promised to make independent and informed decisions if elected.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today program, Ighodalo emphasized that he would not repeat the mistakes of previous leaders, particularly in managing relationships with predecessors. He assured voters that he is not entering government to serve any political godfather.
The upcoming election features major contenders, including Ighodalo, Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP), and Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Ighodalo, who is the former Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), has received the endorsement of the current governor, Godwin Obaseki, despite Obaseki’s longstanding conflict with his deputy, Philip Shaibu.
Obaseki and Shaibu’s dispute over political succession has been a significant issue, but recent developments suggest a reconciliation. However, while Obaseki backs Ighodalo, Oshiomhole and Shaibu have aligned with APC’s Okpebholo.
Asked about navigating potential power dynamics with predecessors, Ighodalo stated, “I will be my own man.” He explained that he has made his own decisions since the age of 18 and emphasized the importance of seeking advice while maintaining independence in leadership.
Celebrating his recent victory at the Court of Appeal, which confirmed him as the PDP candidate, Ighodalo described the ruling as a relief, allowing him to concentrate fully on the election. He pledged to improve the lives of Edo State residents if elected and expressed his intent to mitigate the impact of federal policies that he feels have negatively affected the state. Confident in his chances, Ighodalo noted that President Bola Tinubu had assured a fair and level playing field for the upcoming election.