Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
A frontline and prominent aspirant for the House of Representatives seat representing the Esan Central, Esan West, and Igueben Federal Constituency under the platform of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Comrade Emmanuel Ogbidi, has strongly condemned the recent remarks attributed to the Executive Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, regarding the rising cases of kidnapping across the country.
Recall that the governor had said that there is “no vacancy in Aso Rocks even though they kidnap all of us”.
“There is no vacancy in Aso Rock. They can even kidnap all of us, yes, there is no vacancy in Aso Rock”, Okpebholo said.
He described the statement as shocking, disappointing and insensitive to the security challenges confronting Nigerians.
Speaking to Journalists in Benin, Comrade Ogbidi lamented the growing insecurity and rising incidents of kidnapping across the country since 2023.
According to Comrade Ogbidi, many Nigerians have continued to live in fear under the current administration, and several state governments allegedly aligned with the ruling APC.
Ogbidi said the Governor’s remarks came as a surprise to citizens who are determined to confront insecurity and seek better governance.
He argued that leadership should be centered on protecting lives and property and that any statement perceived as dismissive of the people’s suffering was unacceptable.
“We cannot wait until every Nigerian becomes a victim of kidnapping before decisive action is taken. The safety and welfare of citizens must remain the primary responsibility of government”, Ogbidi said.
The frontline NDC House of Representatives aspirant presented the party as an alternative political force ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He expressed confidence in its presidential ticket, featuring Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, describing their emergence as a sign of hope for Nigerians seeking change, and a direct quit-notice to the current occupants of Aso-Rock, come 2027.
According to him, the growing support for the NDC reflects the desire of citizens for a government that prioritizes security, economic prosperity, and good governance.
He maintained that Nigerians deserve to live peacefully in their homes without fear of kidnappers or criminal elements.
He further stated that the emergence of the NDC and its candidates send a strong political message to the current occupants of power, emphasizing that Nigerians are prepared to make a different choice in 2027.
He further reiterated his condemnation of the statement attributed to the Edo State Governor and called on leaders at all levels to demonstrate greater responsibility in addressing the nation’s challenges.
While acknowledging the hardships many Nigerians have endured in recent years, he expressed optimism that a new chapter of security, hope, and effective leadership could emerge in 2027 through the NDC and its candidates.
“Sorrow may have endured since 2023, but Nigerians are looking forward to a future filled with hope, security, and good governance”, Ogbidi said
According to the party’s leading aspirant, the combined political strength of Peter Obi and Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso constitute a direct political threat to the current administration in Aso Rock.
