Felicia Udeji Reporting
In what started as a critical interview on Arise TV’s “The Morning Show” on Monday, prominent Edo State political figure, E.J. Agbonayinma, found himself compelled to acknowledge the undeniable economic achievements of Governor Godwin Obaseki’s administration. Initially attempting to discredit the sitting government, Agbonayinma was soon overwhelmed by the irrefutable facts presented by the interviewer, leading him to praise the governor’s reforms and initiatives.
Agbonayinma, who is widely recognized for his outspoken views on Edo politics, could not ignore the visible improvements in the state’s internally generated revenue (IGR) and the significant increase in the minimum wage for workers. Despite his initial intent, he ended up commending Obaseki’s efforts, admitting that the governor’s economic strategies have been pivotal in transforming Edo State.
“The facts are there for all to see,” Agbonayinma conceded, as the interviewer laid out the governor’s achievements. He highlighted that Obaseki’s administration has dramatically bolstered the state’s IGR, a feat that was made possible through effective financial reforms and a steadfast commitment to transparency. Agbonayinma acknowledged that the increased revenue has allowed the state to invest heavily in critical infrastructure and social services, directly benefiting the citizens of Edo.
Furthermore, when pressed about the governor’s decision to raise the minimum wage, Agbonayinma couldn’t help but praise the move. He admitted that this decision has had a positive impact on the state’s workforce, ensuring that workers are better compensated in the face of rising living costs. “It’s clear that Governor Obaseki is genuinely committed to the economic well-being of Edo State’s citizens,” Agbonayinma remarked.
He however questioned why the governor had to make the move when the elections are coming up.
Adding a twist to the interview, the presenter pointed out the conspicuous absence of the governorship aspirant whom Agbonayinma has been campaigning for. Despite numerous invitations, the aspirant has consistently avoided interviews with journalists, a fact that did not go unnoticed by the viewers. The interviewer questioned Agbonayinma on this, highlighting the contrast between Obaseki’s transparent governance and the aspirant’s apparent reluctance to engage with the media.
In the end, what was meant to be a critique of Governor Obaseki’s administration turned into an inadvertent endorsement, with Agbonayinma conceding that the governor’s achievements are simply too visible to be discredited.