The Peoples Democratic Party Governorship Candidate in Edo State, Dr. Asue Ighodalo, has pledged fair treatment for the Akoko-Edo people if he is elected in the upcoming September 21 election.
Ighodalo made this commitment during a meeting hosted by the Akoko-Edo Development Association, also known as the Akoko-Edo Forum. This event marked the second session of the “Meet the Candidates” series, a platform that allows Edo State governorship candidates to present their plans for the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area.
During the two-hour discussion with Akoko-Edo stakeholders, Ighodalo outlined his background, highlighting his achievements in the private sector and his roles in Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s economic team and Governor Godwin Obaseki’s Alegodaro economic team. He emphasized that his administration would focus on security, infrastructure, and industrialization if elected.
According to a statement by Mrs. Mary Opii of the Akoko-Edo Development Association, Ighodalo responded to concerns of marginalization by saying, “I agree that Akoko-Edo has been treated unfairly, and I will address it under my watch. I’ll bend over backward to ensure no part of the state is left behind. I will make the creation of LCDA from the present LGA happen, take this as a promise that must be done under my watch.”
Acknowledging the constitutional challenges of creating a new LGA, Ighodalo promised to explore creative solutions using Local Council Development Areas. He added, “We will work with the state House of Assembly to sort this out.”
When asked to provide specific plans for Akoko-Edo, beyond general promises made by past governors, Ighodalo assured that within his first year as governor, “Akoko-Edo will have a functional university, the LGA will be fully represented at the highest level by running an inclusive government.”
He also promised to focus on improving education by providing quality teachers for schools and initiating the establishment of a University of Mining and Geosciences. He committed to ensuring the university starts operating without delay if he is elected.
Furthermore, Ighodalo proposed the idea of returning some missionary schools to their original owners to better manage resources and improve funding. He also mentioned plans to enhance and expand the EDOBEST education program across the state.
