BENIN – A Social Democratic Party (SDP) governorship aspirant in Edo state, Osarenren Derek Izedonmwen has vowed to bring back the glorious days of Former Military Governor of defunct Bendel State (now Edo and Delta states), Brig. Gen. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia, just as he disparaged all other past governments in the state who he said, have left no legacy behind since after the latter, except that of Ambrose Alli.
Izedonmwen said that the Social Democratic Party (SDP) was repositioned to continue from the era of Brig. Gen. Samuel Osaigbovo Ogbemudia and the Professor Ambrose Alli both of blessed memories in enthroning good governance and leadership that is in deficit in the state.
Izedonmwen made the assertion while speaking to newsmen in Benin City during his official declaration to contest the forthcoming governorship election on the platform of the Social Democratic Party SDP .
While seeking the support and nomination of the people ahead of the party’s primary, he noted that the SDP will be giving the other political parties contesting the forthcoming governorship election a field day.
“While our movement may not boast the vast resources of larger parties, our determination to serve Edo State stands unwavering. We understand that power ultimately resides in two poles – those with the money and those with the people.
“We call upon every Edolite not to fall for the moneybags, but rather to stand with us as we stand with the people, for history has shown time and again that the true power always lies with the people,” he said.
Izedonmwen also said the state had been setback by those whose style of politics and governance is turn-by-turn, ultimately for their selfish interest and godfathers but noted that the era will be over if he (Izedonmwen) is given the opportunity to be the party’s flag bearer in the September 21st Governorship election in Edo State.
He vowed to sustain the ideologies of legendary personalities like Chief Anthony Enahoro, General Samuel Ogbemudia, and Professor Ambrose Alli in delivering good governance.
“In our recent republican history, this state has produced great leaders too. We therefore stand on the shoulders of giants like Chief Anthony Enahoro, General Samuel Ogbemudia, and Professor Ambrose Alli; our heroes who each rose to the call of their own generations and delivered remarkably.
“Their remarkable achievements echo through time – from General Ogbemudia’s industrialization and infrastructural brilliance to Professor Alli’s visionary leadership that blessed us with universal education and Chief Enahoro’s strategic wisdom that steered Nigeria towards independence. “Izedonmwen said.
On the insinuations that the homeboys should be given the opportunity to take power in the state this time around, the SDP aspirant said his aspiration to occupy the number one seat of Edo state was occasioned by his burning desire to take the state to the highest level and that only those who knows the terrain as a home boy, born, brought up, schooled in Edo like himself can do that successfully.
“My vision is to rapidly industrialize our state, transforming it into Nigeria’s entrepreneurial hub, the factory of our great nation, a place where value is added to our God given resources.
“An Edo state that is secure and bustling with innovation; a state where businesses flourish, and opportunities abound. This vision is not just a dream; it’s a necessity that is achievable and a promise of a brighter future for all”.
Izedonmwen further pledged, “while other political parties offer hollow promises, we stand apart with realistic and actionable plans. We confront the entrenched interests not with wealth, but with the power of our conviction and a united citizenry ready to sacrifice time and much more for the change we seek.
“Let it be clear: while our movement may not boast the vast resources of larger parties, our determination to serve Edo State stands unwavering.
The SDP Guber aspirant also promised to unite Edo, saying, “I am here to unite all Edolites of every tongue and tribe, from Igarra to Abudu, from Sabongida Ora to Ubiaja, from Auchi to Oredo.
“This is a clarion call to everyone, especially our brave youths, both at home and in the diaspora, to join this grassroots movement, so that
together, we will unlock the potentials of this great land and usher in an era of prosperity and progress.
“This is the Dawn of a New Era and as we embark on this journey, let our resolve be as firm as the ancient red sands of Edo, our spirits as resilient as the Iroko tree, and our hearts as united as the waters of the Benin River.
“Let it bring forth green shoots of change, that will energize a proud people, undivided and unyielding in our pursuit of a better tomorrow.
“Today marks a new beginning, a dawn of hope and unity. Let’s get to work and pave the way for a future where every Edo son and daughter thrives,” he further declared.
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