As political campaigns kick off in Edo State for the upcoming governorship election on September 21, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the candidate from the All Progressives Congress, has said he was committed to respecting and preserving the cultural heritage of his constituents.
Okpebholo, who clinched the party’s sole ticket after defeating 11 other aspirants on February 23, also pledged that, unlike the current administration of the Peoples Democratic Party, his government will always hold the office of Benin monarch, Oba Ewuare II and other royal fathers, in high esteem.
The lawmaker disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by his media office.
He said, “Our traditional institutions have been messed up. The Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo Oba Ewuare II and other Royal Fathers will be held in high esteem, unlike the Peoples Democratic Party’s disrespectful arrogance towards our traditional institutions.
“The good thing is that my running mate and I have contested and won elections before. We are currently members of the National Assembly. Those trying to challenge us are baby politicians who believe that speaking fine English will translate to victory. We will teach them a lesson they will not forget on Election Day.
“When we unveil our manifesto and campaign team, we will hit the ground running. For us, this is a marathon, and will win the race in the end.
“No amount of intimidation or blackmail will derail us. We are in this contest to win and we will take over Edo State by the grace of God.”
Okpebholo disclosed that the contractors working on federal roads have since returned to complete the abandoned projects left behind by previous federal administrations in the country after he and the Edo APC leader, Adams Oshiomhole, intervened.
According to him, more capital projects will be secured when the APC reclaims the state and collaborates with the government at the centre.
He also admonished his loyalists and supporters not to be provoked into causing unrest in the state.
“As the campaigns kick off, I urge our supporters to remain calm and focused. They should not allow anyone to provoke them. I assure them we will win this election and take over the state when the current anti-people regime has left office.
“My running mate, Hon. Dennis Idahosa and I, alongside other party faithful, will speak to the people directly during the campaigns. We will address their concerns and leave no stone unturned.
“We will not lie to the people or deceive them. Our word will be our bond. We will address their concerns and ensure that everyone is carried along. We will talk to our people directly and give them reasons why they should give us a chance to serve them. We have done it before. We will do it again,” he assured.
