The Asue Ighodalo Movement (AIM), a leading support group advocating for the election of Dr. Asue Ighodalo and Barr. Osarodion Ogie, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates in the upcoming Edo State governorship election on September 21, has revealed its extensive Independent Campaign Council (ICC).
According to a document shared with the press in Benin, the ICC comprises 300 dedicated PDP members from across the state, representing all 192 wards, 18 local government areas, and three senatorial zones.
The ICC is organized into several key components: a Management/Trustees board led by High Chief Frank Momoh, a State Campaign Council chaired by Hon. Daniel Asekhame with Chief Tony Alile as deputy chairman, and Emmanuel Osayi serving as Secretary. Additionally, there are various sub-divisions, including a 13-member security team, a 31-member mobilization and sensitization group, senatorial coordinators, local government area coordinators for all 18 LGAs, and 192 ward coordinators statewide.
In a telephone interview, Hon. Asekhame, founder and coordinator of AIM and chairman of the ICC’s State Campaign Council, emphasized their commitment to ensuring Dr. Asue Ighodalo’s election. “Dr. Asue Ighodalo is the best candidate for the job. He is competent, has the capacity, and possesses the character necessary for the role,” Asekhame stated. He highlighted Ighodalo’s strong pedigree and experience, asserting that Edo State would be in safe hands under his leadership.
Asekhame also criticized the opposition, accusing them of attempting to install a “puppet” governor lacking the necessary qualities to govern an enlightened and sophisticated state like Edo. “We owe it a duty to ourselves and future generations to stop them,” he declared.
With about two and a half months remaining in the campaign, AIM’s ICC is committed to utilizing the time effectively through house-to-house, street-to-street, and market-to-market campaigns, as well as other strategic approaches to raise awareness and garner support for their candidates.
Dr. Asue Ighodalo (left) with Hon. Daniel Asekhame, Coordinator of AIM, during the opening of the AIM Campaign Office in GRA, Benin City in April.