Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has revealed that his decision to declare a state burial for the late Chief Tony Anenih, a respected elder statesman and prominent chieftain of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), during his first term as an All Progressives Congress (APC) governor, led to a fallout with Adams Oshiomhole, who saw the gesture as an unforgivable act. Obaseki disclosed this at a PDP campaign rally held at Opujie Primary School, Uromi, in Esan North East Local Government Area, the hometown of Chief Anenih.
“When Chief Anenih passed away, I was still in the APC, but I declared a state burial for him due to his immense contributions to our state and the nation,” Obaseki said. “This decision was not welcomed by Oshiomhole, who viewed it as an unforgivable offense. However, I believed it was the right thing to do for the unity of Edo State. We are all one people.” Obaseki emphasized his support for the Esan governorship agenda, advocating for unity in the state by endorsing Asue Ighodalo, whom he described as capable, competent, and intellectually sound.
In his address, Ighodalo expressed gratitude to the people of Uromi and promised to complete all ongoing projects in Esanland, including those involving water, roads, hospitals, and schools, while also initiating new developments. “Under my administration, Edo will be self-sufficient and a model state for others,” he asserted. The rally saw other PDP leaders, including Senator Clifford Ordia, Hon. Matthew Iduoriyekemwen, and Dr. Tony Aziegbemi, urge the electorate to vote en masse for the PDP, affirming their commitment to continue the progress initiated by Governor Obaseki.
Additionally, Alhaji Musa Isiwele led a group of prominent APC members and hundreds of defectors to join the PDP, citing a lack of confidence in the current APC leadership.