In a compelling display of leadership and vision, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the upcoming Edo State governorship election on September 21, captivated audiences during a pivotal debate held on Friday.
The event, organized by the Unuedo Renaissance, featured Ighodalo facing off against Labour Party candidate Olumide Akpata, while the absence of All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate Monday Okpebholo raised eyebrows.
Ighodalo’s performance was met with enthusiastic applause as he deftly outlined his ambitious plans for the state, drawing extensively from his manifesto titled ‘The Pathway to Prosperity for All.’ In stark contrast, Akpata spent nearly half of his speaking time echoing Ighodalo’s points without presenting a distinct vision of his own.
The organizers commended both Ighodalo and Akpata for attending the debate, while Okpebholo faced criticism for what many perceived as his evasive approach to engaging with the electorate. Attendees noted that Ighodalo’s preparedness set him apart, leaving no doubt about his suitability for governance and commitment to enhancing the welfare of Edo State.
During the debate, Ighodalo confidently addressed key issues, showcasing his thorough understanding of the state’s challenges and providing insights into potential solutions. He acknowledged the progress made in education and economic growth under the current government but emphasized that significant improvements were still necessary.
“While the state has made strides in education and economic development, there remains much more to achieve,” Ighodalo stated. He underscored the importance of security as a fundamental element in his plans for economic revitalization, proposing initiatives focused on vocational training and a curriculum overhaul to prioritize STEM education, ensuring that every child is equipped with essential skills for the future.
The decision by Okpebholo to skip the debate was described by one attendee as a political miscalculation, especially given Unuedo’s status as a prominent social-cultural group within the Edo diaspora. “His absence from such a significant event speaks volumes about his commitment to the people,” they remarked.
As the debate concluded, a consensus emerged among attendees that Dr. Asue Ighodalo is the candidate best positioned to lead Edo State forward. Many expressed concern that Monday Okpebholo and the APC may be underestimating the electorate’s desire for genuine engagement and accountability.
