Obaseki’s Grand Scheme: ₦500 Million For Protests To Propel Ighodalo’s Campaign

Obaseki’s Grand Scheme: ₦500 Million For Protests To Propel Ighodalo’s Campaign

In an audacious political maneuver, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has reportedly taken the reins of Asue Ighodalo’s gubernatorial campaign, setting the stage for a high-stakes electoral battle. Insiders reveal that Obaseki plans to funnel an enormous ₦500 million into organizing street protests against the federal government starting on August 1st, aiming to sway public opinion in favor of his political ally.

Whispers from the corridors of power suggest that the Local Government will serve as the primary conduit for these funds, facilitating the logistics and execution of the protests. This strategy appears to be a calculated effort to undermine President Tinubu’s administration, thereby garnering sympathy and support for Ighodalo in the upcoming Edo gubernatorial elections.

The exact modalities of fund distribution remain shrouded in secrecy, but the involvement of Local Government officials points to a sophisticated network designed to channel resources effectively. This revelation raises critical questions about the ethical implications of using public funds for political gain and the potential repercussions for democratic governance in Edo State.

Governor Godwin Obaseki’s alleged decision to sponsor street protests with ₦500 million raises serious questions, especially given his recent financial windfalls. Obaseki, as a state governor, has benefited significantly from several federal financial interventions, including the removal of fuel subsidy, which provided additional funds to be utilized for state development; the Paris Club refund, receiving substantial funds aimed at alleviating debt burdens and promoting state projects; regular allocations from the 13% oil derivation fund, intended to enhance development in oil-producing regions; World Bank loans and grants that have bolstered the state’s financial capacity, funding various infrastructure and social projects; and the NG-CARES refund, where just days ago, the federal government refunded over ₦5 billion to the state, enhancing financial stability.

Even local government-generated revenue has been on the rise, further strengthening the state’s financial position. With money coming in from left, right, and center, street talk would have us saying “NA GBOSA” (a term suggesting applause or celebration of abundance).

Given this influx of funds, Obaseki should be seen to be working hard to take care of his people by providing basic needs such as roads, affordable and good healthcare, and other core democratic dividends. Instead, the decision to clandestinely sponsor protests highlights his hypocritical nature, as the people should be protesting his bad governance and even demanding his resignation.

To make matters worse, Asue Ighodalo, Obaseki’s preferred choice for governor, is unlikely to offer any improvement. Known for using an interpreter when addressing his people, Ighodalo’s leadership would likely exacerbate the current governance issues. As the protest date approaches, the political landscape in Edo is set to be rocked by this controversial strategy. The unfolding events will undoubtedly shape the narrative of the gubernatorial race, with Obaseki’s bold tactics under intense scrutiny.

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