A governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in next year’s election in Edo State, Gideon Obakhan, has said that political leaders can no longer take for granted the power of the electorate as the days of queueing behind a favoured candidate were over.
Obakhan, who said this in Benin yesterday noted that political parties now know that they need to field their best if they intend to win an election.
He stated that the last election, which saw many notable political leaders including President Bola Tinubu losing their states to opposition parties was an eye-opener to political leaders and aspirants, noting that many voters are now aware of the power they have in deciding the fate of the country.
He said, “The people are the ones to decide who the party will present for election. The last election has shown that the right candidates must be fielded by political parties if they hope to win elections.
“Gone are the days when political leaders would present a candidate, and instruct party faithful to queue behind them. The right candidate must be presented or parties risk losing elections”.
He also urged the political parties to field candidates from Edo Central to ensure fairness, equity, and justice as the region was yet to rule the state since 1999 safe for the truncated 18 months reign of Prof. Oserheimen Osunbor who was sacked by a court.
He added, “I hear people talking about Edo South having the capacity to win the election but I ask where is the place of fairness, equity, and justice in our politics? Edo Central should be given the opportunity to rule the state this time.
“The narrative has changed and whoever wins must have done a lot of work during the campaigns. However, Edo Central should be given a chance in the state”.