Edo Govt Prepares For Transition While PDP Is Still In Litigation Mood: Writes Okpebholo, APC On Formation Of Transition Team
The Oasis Reporters
October 14, 2024
Edo State best typifies the broken system of the nation’s electoral system in it’s classic cheers and jeers of anger mode. This heartbeat of Nigeria has had four different governors and more deputy governors since the dawn of this Republic in 1999. Almost all of its governors go to court before anyone can truly say, this is the true governor who actually won the election.
The PDP anointed candidate lost the election despite being backed by the sitting governor, Godwin Obaseki.
Meanwhile, the PDP candidate, Asue Ighodalo is in court inspecting the voting materials to check for infractions that may produce the story of who indeed won. That is a track Adams Oshiomole used in overturning the gubernatorial election winner that toppled Professor Osarhieme as governor and declared him, Oshiomole as the duly elected governor of Edo State.
Godwin Obaseki too, first won his election, backed by the then sitting governor, former labour leader, Adams Oshiomole but they fell apart, four years after in a case of anger, what Yoruba people of the South West call Ibinu.
Benin was angry so they pushed Obaseki to join the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) from where he resoundingly won reelection four years ago.
Well, the APC candidate is to be there now and the Edo State Government has written to Senator Monday Okpebholo to initiate the formation of his transition team, which is expected to interface with the transition team of the outgoing administration.
In a letter dated October 10, 2024, Secretary to the State Government, Joseph Eboigbe, said, establishing the team will allow both parties to begin meaningful discussions and share vital information that will ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and continuity of governance.
Recall that in July 2024, the Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, had inaugurated a 20-member transition committee chaired by Mr. Joseph Eboigbe, to pilot the smooth transition of power and knowledge to the next administration.
The letter reads: “I hope this message finds you in great spirits. As we prepare for the transition of power, we believe it is crucial to establish a smooth and effective collaboration between your team and our current administration.”
According to Eboigbe, “To facilitate this process, we invite you and your party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to initiate the formation of your transition team at your earliest convenience.
“Establishing this team will allow us to begin meaningful discussions and share vital information that will ensure a seamless transfer of responsibilities and continuity of governance.”
The Secretary to the State Government noted, “We are committed to providing you with the necessary support and resources to make this transition as effective and efficient as possible. Consequently, 14th October, 2024 is proposed for the inaugural meeting for members of both Transition Committees.”
“We look forward to your prompt response and to working closely with you and your team in the coming weeks. Together, we can set the foundation for a successful administration that meets the expectations of our constituents. Thank you for your attention,” he added.
The letter by the Edo State Government to Senator Monday Okpebholo which was received by an admin secretary at the Secretariat of the Edo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Mr. Joy Oyere, has not yet been responded to.
Greg Abolo.
