Dr. Asue Ighodalo, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, has emphasized the importance of electing leaders who can deliver effective governance.
Speaking at a Town Hall Meeting organized by the Edo State Chapter of the National Youth Council (NYC), Ighodalo highlighted that both Nigeria and Edo State are currently facing numerous challenges. He argued that the state needs leaders who are ready to confront these challenges directly and provide sustainable solutions for the benefit of all.
Ighodalo pointed out the rising cost of living, high prices of essential goods, fuel, and transportation, as well as the fluctuating exchange rates, as signs of these challenges. He stressed the need for experienced and capable individuals to tackle these issues effectively.
“Do you know why we need to vote for a good government in Edo State? It is because our country is facing so many challenges and our state is affected by those challenges and there is the need for us as the people of Edo State to take those challenges head-on.
“Think about the prices of goods in the country today, rice, beans, yams, talk of petrol and transportation. Look at the exchange rate. So you see that there are challenges and we must find the right people to do the right things.
”Therefore, we need experienced men and women who have the competence and capacity and the know-how to tackle those problems and get a solution that will better the lives of all of us.
“The September 21 governorship election is, therefore, a thing that is between light and darkness, between good and evil and between going forward into the next century or going back to the 17th century.
“I therefore beg you to go out on September 21 and cast your vote, monitor it and ensure it is counted and follow it up so that bad people won’t short change us.
“We don’t want Tigers and Lions in this state again, or do you want them? We don’t want bad people who will beat up our mothers in the market place or where they are selling their goods. We don’t want the troubles of old time. That’s why you must vote for Osarodion Ogie and myself that day.”
Ighodalo urged voters to see the upcoming election as a choice between progress and regression, and to actively participate in the electoral process to prevent bad governance from prevailing. He called on the people to vote for himself and his running mate, Osarodion Ogie, and to reject those who have previously caused turmoil and distress in the state.
On the topic of security, Ighodalo stated his commitment to using technology to make Edo State safer, mentioning a recent tragic incident involving the death of a young girl. He underscored that security is vital for attracting both local and international investment.
While acknowledging the achievements of the outgoing administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki, he insisted that much work remains to be done, and assured that he has the plans and strategies to generate the necessary resources to fund the state’s development. He concluded by expressing his gratitude to the youth for their involvement and affirmed his dedication to their progress and welfare.