The governorship candidate for the All Progressives Grand Alliance in Edo State, Dr. Isaiah Osifo, has voiced strong opposition to the immunity clause that shields Nigerian state governors from litigation.
He argued that this provision obstructs transparency and accountability in governance. Osifo asserted that if elected governor, he would uphold the rule of law to address various issues in the state without misappropriating state funds.
Osifo brings a significant background in local governance, having served as the chairman of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area. During his tenure, he implemented effective policies that earned him a second term and led to his election as chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria. He pledged to apply the same principles and achievements from his time as chairman to his governorship.
A key aspect of Osifo’s campaign is his commitment to local government autonomy, which he believes is essential for state development. He stated, “Autonomy for local government areas ought to be a plus to the government in power because if you allow the local governments to operate independently, they will develop their areas and in the long run, the entire state will be developed.”
Additionally, Osifo dismissed any rumors of forming alliances with the Peoples Democratic Party, the All Progressives Congress, or the Labour Party.
He emphasized his vision for a state governed by the rule of law, saying, “A state that has rule of law will not just pounce on people’s property and demolish them. There is no rule of law in Edo State as far as I am concerned. If I am elected, everybody will know that there is rule of law in Edo State and everybody will be equal before the law.”
On the contentious issue of the immunity clause, Osifo stated, “I don’t even believe in this immunity clause they are talking about because you can’t commit crime and say you are covered by the immunity clause. What kind of immunity is that? Everybody must be equal before the law and the constitution of Nigeria. A citizen must know that he is equal to the governor and I don’t need money to do that.”
Osifo also outlined his plans to boost the state’s economy through substantial investments in agriculture, aiming to create jobs for millions of unemployed youths and ensure food security.