The Edo South Business Forum criticized Senator Monday Okpebholo, the APC governorship candidate, for saying he would follow in former governor Adams Oshiomhole’s footsteps if elected.
The forum stated that Oshiomhole’s time as governor was the worst in Edo State’s history, accusing him of leading without care, promoting violence, and failing to attract significant investments to the state.
Osazuwa Imafidon, the forum’s Chairman, raised concerns about Okpebholo’s promise, warning that it might mean a return to the troublesome governance of Oshiomhole’s era.
He highlighted a well-known incident involving the former governor and a widow in Benin City, where Oshiomhole callously told her to “Go and die” when she asked for mercy. This event, as per Imafidon, symbolized Oshiomhole’s harsh leadership style on a national scale.
The forum also criticized Oshiomhole’s treatment of teachers, especially during a verification process labeled as a public display of degradation, leading to a hostile work environment marked by fear and coercion.
According to the forum, one of the most damaging aspects of Oshiomhole’s time in office was his purported endorsement of thuggery, which they argue weakened the rule of law and cultivated an atmosphere of fear and violence in Edo State.
The forum accused Oshiomhole’s government of not bringing about genuine economic progress, labeling his time in office as one of missed chances and promises that were not fulfilled.
Imafidon cautioned Edo voters to not support Senator Okpebholo as his promise to follow Oshiomhole’s legacy indicates a desire to return Edo State to a period of poor governance.
The group stated, “Edo deserves better. We deserve leadership that respects our dignity, values our contributions, and is committed to building a future that benefits all, not just a select few.”
