Benin City, Nigeria—In a major show of support, Vice President Kashim Shettima made a compelling case for Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All-Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the upcoming Edo State governorship election. Speaking to a large crowd in Benin on Saturday, 14 September, 2024. Shettima emphasized Okpebholo’s leadership qualities, describing him as a “strategic thinker” with a deep connection to the people of Edo State.
“Edo needs a compassionate leader, one who is in tune with the yearnings and aspirations of its people,” Shettima said, praising Okpebholo’s grassroots approach and commitment to serving the public. He further highlighted the APC candidate’s ability to drive radical change and bring much-needed transformation to the state.
Shettima, joined by other top APC figures, underscored the importance of electing a leader who listens and leads with humility. He expressed confidence that Okpebholo and his running mate, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, would complement each other, working together to usher in a new era of governance for Edo State.
The Vice President also quoted former U.S. President Ronald Reagan, stating, “The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. He is the one that gets people to do the greatest things.” Shettima’s remarks were aimed at driving home the point that Okpebholo’s leadership style is one that empowers citizens, fostering unity and progress.
In his appeal to Edo voters, Shettima stressed the benefits of aligning the state’s leadership with the party at the federal level. He noted that recent economic reforms have paved the way for increased revenue allocations, which would enable the incoming governor to execute impactful projects.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who was also present, echoed Shettima’s sentiments, urging voters to support the APC for a brighter future. He revealed that N212 billion has been allocated for the reconstruction of the Auchi-Benin road, which would significantly boost economic activities in the region.
Former Edo State Governor, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, also weighed in, criticizing the outgoing administration for its lack of development. He expressed hope that Okpebholo’s leadership would restore Edo’s potential and rebuild its infrastructure.
As the election draws nearer, Okpebholo has promised to focus on education, health, and economic empowerment, vowing to provide soft loans to farmers and market women, and to prioritize hiring over 5,000 teachers when voted in office.
With the support of key APC leaders and a strong campaign, the spotlight is now on Okpebholo as Edo voters prepare to head to the polls.
