According to the report from the Vanguard, a recent report from the Vanguard highlights insights shared by Mr. Nosa Adams, a prominent lawyer and leader within the All Progressive Congress, regarding the political landscape in Edo State. Adams shed light on a growing consensus among the state’s populace concerning the upcoming gubernatorial race.
According to Adams, there is a widespread sentiment in Edo State that the time has come for a candidate from Edo Central, particularly of Esan origin, to assume the role of governor. This perspective stems from a desire to ensure equitable representation among the state’s three senatorial districts: Edo South, Edo Central, and Edo North, which correspond to the Bini, Esan, and Afemai communities respectively.
In discussing the current political climate, Adams addressed the candidacy of Olumide Akpata from the Labour Party. Despite acknowledging a personal connection to Akpata, Adams suggested that supporting his bid might not align with the prevailing sentiment favoring an Edo Central candidate.
Adams elaborated on this point, stating: “The Labour Party candidate is my cousin but unfortunately he cannot win the election because in Edo State, there’s this general consensus that the Binis have had their eight years, in fact they have their 16 years.”
He further explained the state’s political structure: “We have three senatorial districts – Edo South, the Bini speaking area; Edo central, the Esan speaking area; and Edo North, the Afemai speaking area. The Esans are the only ones that have been left out so there was this consensus that this time around, we should let the Esans from Edo central have a shot.”
Adams emphasized the growing support for this perspective: “That consensus is building up on a daily basis because in Edo State we’re all one. We’re all under the great Benin kingdom that is why the Oba is supreme in Edo State.”
Highlighting the importance of fairness in political representation, Adams added: “We all agreed that our brothers should at least have a shot because we cannot afford to be so unfair to them as to deny them the opportunity to serve the state. If you deny them that opportunity it would not be fair, just and equitable.”
Adams noted: “Akpata is from Edo South,” implying that his candidacy might not align with the current push for an Edo Central governor.
This commentary from a key APC figure underscores the complex interplay of regional representation and political equity in Edo State’s upcoming gubernatorial race, suggesting that geographical considerations may play a significant role in shaping voter preferences.