In the complex political landscape of Edo State, the rift between Governor Obaseki and his predecessor, Oshiomhole, has taken a new turn, exposing intricate power plays and clandestine deals that could impact the upcoming elections.
Back in 2016, Obaseki served in Oshiomhole’s economic team, replacing the deputy, Odubu. Allegedly, a covert agreement was struck, where Obaseki promised financial support to Oshiomhole in exchange for the governorship position. However, once in power, Obaseki began to renege on this arrangement, leading to his exclusion from the governorship race orchestrated by Oshiomhole’s team.
Realizing that only Pastor Osagie Ize Iyamu could pose a threat to Obaseki, Oshiomhole sought his return to the party, promising him the ticket without revealing his ulterior motive. Aso Rock disapproved of Oshiomhole’s decision, leading to his eventual suspension as the national chairman of the party.
As Governor Obaseki’s term approaches its end, an unexpected twist emerges. Obaseki and Oshiomhole, in an effort to mend ties, organize a gathering with former governors Pa. Oyegun, Lucky IGBENEDION, and Adams Oshiomhole himself. While the stated purpose was to present awards to the former governors, it appears the underlying motive was for Oshiomhole to discuss the unfulfilled financial negotiations from 2016 with Obaseki.
The meeting took an intriguing turn as Oshiomhole stayed behind to meet with Obaseki, orchestrated by the governor’s wife. Allegedly, the plan is for Oshiomhole to manipulate the selection of a weak candidate whom Obaseki’s preferred PDP candidate can easily defeat. The agreed-upon money from the 2016 negotiations would then be paid to Oshiomhole.
Ominously, Oshiomhole is reportedly on a clandestine mission, forming a screening committee to eliminate strong APC candidates who could challenge the PDP. If not addressed promptly, this maneuver could have dire consequences for the APC’s prospects in Edo State.
The call for intervention comes as a plea for the president and the national chairman of the party to uphold democracy, ensuring a fair political process in both Nigeria and Edo State. The unfolding political drama, if left unattended, poses a serious threat to the future of the APC in Edo State.
