The All Progressives Congress (APC) has recently demanded that Osarodion Ogie, the running mate to the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), resign from his position as Secretary to the State Government, as reported by PUNCH.
The APC argues that Ogie should not continue to draw public salaries and benefits while he is actively campaigning for office.
According to the APC, Ogie’s decision to remain in his government role while pursuing his bid for deputy governor violates principles of decency and ethics. They claim that his continued service in government amounts to a misuse of public resources for personal gain, particularly since he is using official vehicles and other government assets for his campaign activities.
The Acting State Chairman of the APC, Jarrett Tenebe, criticized Ogie’s actions as a misuse of taxpayers’ money and a form of corruption. He emphasized that it is inappropriate for an unelected public servant to remain in office while campaigning for another position. Tenebe’s statement highlighted the APC’s stance that Ogie’s behavior is both unacceptable and detrimental to the people of Edo State.
Tenebe said, “Ogie is currently earning salary and other official benefits as Secretary to the State Government, even while pursuing a private ambition to become deputy governor. He is using official vehicles and other government logistics to service his electioneering campaign. This is totally unacceptable and a waste of taxpayers’ money.
“This is the very definition of corruption. No unelected public servant should be allowed to do this. It’s patently wrong and a disservice to the state and the long-suffering people of Edo State.”
In response, Chris Nehikhare, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, defended Ogie, stating that the APC’s objections are unfounded. Nehikhare pointed out that the Electoral Act allows public officials to remain in office until one month before the election, contrary to the APC’s claims. He criticized the APC for their apparent misunderstanding of the electoral law and described them and their candidate as “clueless,” suggesting that they have not properly read or understood the legal provisions.
“They can’t read and their candidate can’t read. They should go and read the electoral law, it says 30 days before the election. it is obvious now the APC cannot read and their candidate cannot read, it is a party of clueless people,” Nehikhare said….Seë_Morë