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Oshiomhole’s Steadfast Leadership: The Futility of Akpakomiza, Clem Agba And Anamero’s Opposition In APC’s Path To Success

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2 years ago

February 19, 2024

Ireporteronline

Oshiomhole’s Steadfast Leadership: The Futility of Akpakomiza, Clem Agba And Anamero’s Opposition In APC’s Path To Success

By Osigwe Omo-Ikirodah

Political loyalty among constituents is vital for unity, stability, and effective governance, contributing to consistent policy implementation, a positive public image, resilience against external pressures, improved communication, and political legitimacy.

This support enables leaders to pursue long-term visions, withstand challenges, and create a cohesive and enduring political environment. However, maintaining a healthy balance between loyalty and accountability is essential for responsible governance.

In politics, leadership revolves around guiding and serving the people. H.E Adams Oshiomhole, recognized as a charismatic and influential figure, consistently embodies this core principle. Whether as Edo State Governor, APC National Chairman, or in his current role as a Senator, Oshiomhole remains a decisive force, championing the interests of the masses.

In the long run, as our turn within the political platform arrives, the benefits of our loyalty and patient waiting become even more apparent on a personal level. Additionally, the discipline we’ve demonstrated sets the foundation for successful leadership, ensuring that when our moment comes, we are well-equipped with the skills, experience, and trust needed to make a meaningful impact.

This article isn’t about praising or glorifying Oshiomhole, whom I deeply respect. Instead, it’s a cautionary reminder for individuals to be mindful of their actions because history will judge them. Can these leaders confidently claim they’ve provided the same level of support and assistance to people and party members as Oshiomhole has?

When was the last time Edo South had a leader who was generally respected, regardless of political affiliation? Similarly, Edo Central has been without a notable leader since the death of Tony Anenih. On the other hand, Edo North produced Oshiomhole, who has become a well-known leader not only in Edo North but throughout the state.

These are serious issues. Why should Oshiomhole’s staunch supporters, Senator Okpebholo, Clem Agba, and Hon Dekeri Anamero, without apology, provide a platform for a few persons to seek to tarnish Adams Oshiomhole’s reputation? We need to reflect on recent events.

Clem Agba secured his ministerial appointment through Oshiomhole’s influence, Hon Sunday Dekeri Anamero, also known as DANCO, earned his position in the House of Representatives with Adams Oshiomhole’s support, and Senator Okpebholo aka Akpakomiza consistently receives substantial backing from him.

So why are these individuals, who have previously benefited from his generosity, now being used as symbols to undermine his leadership?

Oshiomhole defended both the ordinary APC members and party leaders during the period of Obaseki’s erratic behavior. Despite enduring insults and being unjustly portrayed as an enemy to the people of Benin,he remained faithful.

But still When things go tough, people trust Oshiomhole as a trustworthy leader. They see that he is dependable and provides unwavering support by continuously standing up for both the group’s and each person’s interests.

His fair distribution of empowerment among party members strengthened the party and bolstered its resilience during Obaseki’s intense struggle, which resulted in the unfortunate loss of some people’s properties and businesses. Nevertheless, with Oshiomhole’s support, they were able to withstand the onslaught, keeping the party strong and united.

These people, who I respect greatly as renowned leaders, ought to reconsider their mindset and adopt new eyes. We believe these people are still very much leaders who will have much to contribute in the years to come.

Why risk jeopardising their reputation? It is worth noting that Okpebholo, Anamero, and Clem Agba have all been declared as gubernatorial candidates by various state party leaders, casting the APC in the state in a terrible and funny light.

Is Adams Oshiomhole’s constitutional right to support a single candidate wrong? When they fully understand that he cannot cast his support for more than one guy.

It is crucial that they consider the broader perspective and refrain from providing grounds for Oshiomhole to face criticism simply because they were not personally endorsed by him. Oshiomhole, by himself, cannot unilaterally determine the next governor.

Previously, what prompted Clem Agba, Senator Okpebholo, and Anamero to consistently seek Oshiomhole’s company in every situation or event? Demonstrating a keen effort to align themselves with him. This conspicuous display of loyalty serves their individual and somewhat self-serving purpose, particularly in seeking Oshiomhole’s endorsement for their gubernatorial aspirations.

If they were guided by rational thinking, wouldn’t they recognize that Oshiomhole, by virtue of fairness, cannot endorse more than one candidate? If their intention was for Oshiomhole to uphold nuertality , then what was the purpose of striving to portray themselves as the most favored, engaging in a competition among themselves to gain his favor? Given that neutrality should be maintained in endorsements, why the pretense of seeking his endorsement merely for show?

Consider Jarret, the state acting APC chairman, who has undoubtedly benefited greatly from Oshiomhole’s support. Is it appropriate for him to create a perception of Oshiomhole going astray?

Not everyone can wear the crown; it’s meant for one person. A leader must make the right choice, considering not just personal interests but the interests of everyone. If Dennis Idahosa fails tomorrow, who else would party members seek support and favors from if not Adams Oshiomhole?

How many of these individuals throwing tantrums would have the power to influence appointments and political favors from the Federal Government to party members? Shouldn’t we consider the bigger picture here? Is it fair to turn Oshiomhole’s single choice, made among his loyalists, into a wrongdoing? Would we face the same issues if Oshiomhole had supported Clem, Anamero, or Akpakomiza?

Why is it that each of them proclaims victory, yet in the face of defeat, they cannot collectively acknowledge and agree on the actual winner among them? These individuals are purported to be Oshiomhole’s closest allies, and yet, even in opposition, they display a disconcerting lack of unity.

Now, let’s examine the political ramifications of the current situation. Just as Oshiomhole, in consultation with his supporters, endorsed Dennis Idahosa, the faction led by Jarret Tenebe endorsed Senator Monday Okpebholo, citing it as an Esan Agenda.

Despite being fully aware that Oshiomhole commands extensive support across the state and Dennis also boasts substantial backing, a few individuals within the APC, led by the acting state chairman Jarret, strategically organized their own parallel election.

This move was a calculated response to the Hope Uzodinma committee’s process, aiming to counter it by presenting Akpakomiza as their preferred candidate.

Presently, the legal framework acknowledges the National Working Committee (NWC) of a political party as the officially recognized entity responsible for presenting a gubernatorial candidate on the party’s platform. The NWC of the APC has already issued a press release confirming that its congress, leading to the selection of Dennis Idahosa, is the acknowledged and recognized process.

That finalizes the matter. Yet, where did the situation deviate to the extent that Oshiomhole is not allowed to have a preference? An election was conducted, deemed free and fair, and a victor has been determined. However, it is Oshiomhole’s most devoted supporters who have chosen to create turmoil simply because none of them garnered more acceptance from the people.

“The strength of a family, like the strength of an army, is in its loyalty to each other.”- This proverb highlights the importance of loyalty within a family. It draws a parallel between the strength of a family and that of an army, emphasizing that their power lies in the unwavering loyalty and commitment each member has toward the others. The unity and loyalty within the family contribute to its collective strength.

Had Adams Oshiomhole not been an admirable leader, they wouldn’t have gone to great lengths to showcase their loyalty, almost turning it into a competition among themselves. If he lacked decency, they likely wouldn’t hesitate to associate with him.

As a final note to these individuals and a message to the public, it’s imperative to recognize that political success is built on principles of unity, integrity, and commitment to the greater good.

For those seeking Oshiomhole’s endorsement, it’s essential to prioritize party cohesion over personal ambitions and to respect democratic processes. Loyalty should not overshadow the broader objective of advancing collective interests, and competition among allies only serves to undermine unity.

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