Senator Monday Okpebholo, the gubernatorial candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo, has urged the residents of Edo State to remove the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from power in the forthcoming governorship election, citing reports from Vanguard about the purported failure of the PDP to pay Ambrose Alli University (AAU), Ekpoma lecturers their salaries for 24 months.
Speaking to the audience in Emuado – Ekpoma, within the Esan West Local Government Area, Senator Okpebholo emphasized the importance of holding the PDP responsible for the overdue salaries, a persistent problem despite refutations from both the state government and university administration.
Senator Okpebholo, along with his partner Dennis Idahosa, encouraged locals to turn away from the PDP, highlighting the party's inability to tackle the issues faced by AAU educators. He censured Governor Obaseki for supposedly disregarding the well-being of university personnel despite boasting about electoral successes.
He stated, “I saw the governor of Edo State on television saying his party has all it takes to win over 80 per cent of the vote in the forthcoming governorship election. Someone who has not been able to rescue Ambrose Alli University lecturers by paying 27 months salaries owed lecturers in the institution, saying he wants to bring his successor.
“He has already done enough damage to Edo State. PDP has done enough damage to Edo State. We need you to help chase them away from Edo State governance and we know that with you, we can do it.”
Senator Okpebholo emphasized the significance of choosing leaders who prioritize the well-being of the people above their own interests. He urged unity among voters to foster positive governance changes and secure a brighter future for Edo State.
Speaking directly to the lecturers, Senator Okpebholo raised concerns about Governor Obaseki's governance track record, citing the extended salary delays as proof of the administration's inability to meet its responsibilities.
He stated, “If Obaseki can claim he has done well, then what crime have the lecturers here in Ambrose Ali University committed? What have you done to Obaseki? You have the opportunity to help us chase away Obaseki, chase away PDP from this local government area and the state.
“So, go back to recruit and canvas for people on our behalf that there will be a better Emuado, a better Ekpoma and a better Edo State, for all of us as partners. We don’t want to elect merchants, we don’t want to elect dictators, we want a partnership.”