Leaders under the aegis of the Reformed Niger Delta Avengers have endorsed Ernest Umakhihe to succeed Governor Godwin Obaseki in the Edo State 2024 governorship poll.
While addressing newsmen in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State Capital during a world press Conference, the group led by its General Commanding Officer, JohnMark Ezonebi, described Dr Umakhihe as “an astute administrator, a professional human and financial resources expert with a sound accounting background who has shown capacity in the area of peace advocacy and leadership needed by the people of Edo”.
He explained that after an enlarged meeting of the various commanders of nine Militant groups in the creeks of Bini River in Egbema Axis of Edo State, a further check of the various Governorship aspirants in the forthcoming APC Governorship Primary race, it observed that Dr. Umakhihe stands out amongst the rest.
In a statement, he described the APC candidate as a selfless leader with distinction, according to Nigerian Tribune.
Parts of the statement read “he is a selfless leader with distinction and a detribalised Nigerian and true son of Edo Land who has contributed to the overall development of Edo State through his previous positions, as he influenced different Infrastructural projects in Edo State including roads, solar pole street lights, distribution of agricultural proceeds to empower farmers.
“He has been known to give needed attention to youth empowerment projects and social welfare for students empowerment, and many others to mention while he was serving the country as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
“We have critically checked and analyzed the track record and antecedents of Dr Enerst Umakhihe, and we were all convinced that he will drastically and dramatically transform the economy and social life of the Edo people, which all parts of the State will be carried along and the people will have a sense of belonging. Therefore, as a militant group we are well pleased to identify with the candidature of Dr Ernest Afolabi Umakhihe, and we see him as our Governor in waiting.”