ESAN/EDO CENTRAL SENATORIAL CANDIDACY 2025: WHO THE CAP FITS ...BY TUNDE GODSON EIGBIREMOLEN, Ph.D

 

There is no doubting the fact that the attempts, race and shenanigans to replace Senator Monday Okpebholo, Edo State Governor in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is currently  ongoing and calls for deep retrospection, based on three strong reasons.

First, there are Serious Comedians and Jesters in the race, who are unserious and just want to make their presence known.These  folks, though they be in the race are, seriously Speaking, not actually the ones to consider.They are what they are : Jesters.

Secondly, there are the Contenders. As a matter of fact, this group of Aspirants are in the race not for their Stomach sake, but for the sole reason to give Esan people and those of us from Edo Central, not just Effective Representation but people-centric,  and quality Representation anchored on the principles of justice, equity and fair play. If you know, you know.

Thirdly, we have the group that can be referred to as The Predenters.In all they are doing right now, they Pretend. Since the day they ventured into politics, they have been pretending and until NOW. Mtchew!

We, therefore need to critically examine those who are now justling and hustling to take over Okpebholo's job in the Senate. First, Prince Joe Okojie.

Who is Prince Joe Okojie? Let us critically examine his antecedents and assess whether he is a man of great character and integrity. Has his involvement in politics directly or indirectly benefited his constituents?

We begin with his role in creating a strong opposition to the ruling party of the day. His efforts compelled members of the ruling party to reassert their positions, leading to tangible developments such as the dualization of the main road passing through Uromi Mission Road and the establishment of the Uromi Institute of Construction Technology. Before Prince Joe Okojie’s involvement in politics during the Fourth Republic, there was little to no significant development for the Esan people. Politics at the time was characterized by a “leader has spoken, everyone must follow” mentality. His strong opposition challenged this norm and brought about these notable advancements in Esanland.

As Commissioner for Agriculture, he facilitated the commissioning of the Agrotek Rice Mill in Ugboha, Edo State. The facility, located at Km 14 along the Uromi-Ugboha Road in Ugboha, Esan South East LGA, spans 2 hectares and boasts a 40,000-metric-ton-per-annum integrated rice mill. This mill processes long-grain rice paddy into 100% Sortex premium-quality rice.

Additionally, during his tenure as Special Adviser to the Edo State Government on Agriculture and Food Security, Prince Joe Okojie influenced the approval of the School of Agriculture for Uromi. This institution has been passed into law and gazetted by the Edo State House of Assembly. While construction is yet to commence, the responsibility now lies with the state assembly members representing the area to ensure progress.

Prince Joe Okojie has also demonstrated strong character and unwavering conviction. A notable example is his decision to stand by Governor Obaseki when Adams Oshiomhole denied the governor the ticket to run for a second term under the APC. Believing Governor Obaseki was unjustly treated, Prince Joe Okojie supported him and moved to the PDP alongside him, leaving behind a party he had financially supported for years. This decision underscores his commitment to his principles and his dedication to what he believed was right.

It is worth noting that Prince Joe Okojie has never been elected to any position or appointed to any federal government role that would enable him to fully utilize his potential to significantly impact his constituents. Despite this, he has used his personal wealth to quietly support individuals in need, particularly women and widows in the community, without seeking public recognition. These consistent acts of kindness reflect his genuine desire to uplift his people.

I believe that, if given the opportunity, Prince Joe Okojie will achieve extraordinary results for Esanland, much like the legendary Chief Anthony Enahoro. Chief Enahoro was a man of strong character and conviction, and only leaders with such qualities can drive meaningful development for their people.

As you read this, I urge you to reflect deeply. You may not personally like Prince Joe Okojie, but Esanland’s needs go beyond personal preference. What we require now is leadership that can propel us forward and bring about real progress. This is not a time for personal aggrandizement; Esanland needs meaningful development.

Some of us may be intolerant of dissenting voices, but I implore you to set aside any biases and critically consider what is truly best for our land. The time for meaningful change is now.

Dr. TUNDE EIGBIREMOLEN is MEDIA DIRECTOR AND POLICY ANALYST.