“Who Is Afraid of EJ Agbonayinma? Superlative Performance Unsettles Political Opponents

“Who Is Afraid of EJ Agbonayinma? Superlative Performance Unsettles Political Opponents

No doubt, the upcoming Edo Elections promised to be an intriguing and promising affair. The primary reason for this is the fact that the incumbent Governor, Godwin Obaseki, is on the verge of completing his mandatory two terms in office.

As a result, the political landscape is charged with anticipation, with numerous contenders throwing their hats into the ring. The governor’s departure means he may not wield as much influence as when he was running for a second term, which has piqued the interest of many aspiring politicians.

Edo’s electorate is known for being politically enlightened and immune to blind sentiments. They cannot be easily swayed. However, recent developments suggest that there are orchestrated attempts to fill the election campaign with mudslinging and deep-seated hatred.

It is no secret that the most popular candidate in an election becomes more vulnerable to orchestrated blackmail due to their increased visibility and higher stakes. Their prominence attracts greater scrutiny, making them an attractive target for blackmailers seeking to exploit personal or sensitive information.

The potential damage to their reputation and electoral prospects is significant, given their wider reach and influence.

Could this be the reason why E.J. Agbonayinma is now perceived as a threat by other candidates? It seems that some wish he would step aside or simply quit the political stage.

Why do so many political opponents dread this stalwart of the All Progressives Congress? Why does political rivalry get so intense that so-called leaders either wish their rivals total failure or take drastic steps to bring them down, even if they profess to be in politics for the welfare of the public?

It is disheartening to witness the deluge of evil stones hurled at such a respectable personality out of envy. The lengths to which some individuals go, paying influencers to tarnish his image, is beyond comprehension.

Honorable E.J. Agbonayinma is a former member of the House of Representatives who represented the Egor/Ikoba Okha federal constituency in the 8th National Assembly.

Ironically, amidst the daily insults launched at him by half-baked influencers who are now largely known as extortionists, the incident involving cows invading a school in his constituency during his tenure as a member of the House of Representatives sparks deception and a grand plan to peddle misinformation.

It is essential to note that E.J. Agbonayinma never held the position of Governor of the state, nor was he serving as the Deputy Governor when the incident occurred in 2017. That was the time when Fulani Herders were at the peak of their indiscriminate roaming, a situation that even the Federal Government of that time struggled to control.

How could a viral video, which occurred during a time when there was a senator representing the district, a commissioner nominated from the local government, a deputy governor representing the state, a governor, and relevant security agencies, solely be attributed to the House of Representatives member?

The blame for a five-minute cow experience was unjustly heaped upon him by these so-called internet warriors.

As the race narrows down, it becomes increasingly clear that E.J. Agbonayinma is a leading contender who poses a significant threat to others. His track record of performance is what sets him apart.

A track record of performance plays a crucial role in building trust with constituents. When a politician consistently delivers on their promises, implements effective policies, and demonstrates competence in their role, it establishes a track record that fosters trust among the electorate.

Fortunately, the electorate recognises and values Honourable E.J. Agbonayinma’s favourable records. Those who commit these atrocities may assume they are unknown because they hide behind the anonymity of social media.

We do, however, have a good understanding of who they are, and their good fortune will run out soon. They will be held accountable sooner rather than later for their activities.

So I’ll end by asking, who is terrified of E J Agbonayinma?

Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah is the Chairman and CEO of Bush Radio Academy.