By Abiola Olawale
Ahead of the September 21 governorship election in Edo State, the Okpebholo dynasty in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area (LGA) of the state has declared allegiance to the candidacy of the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Asue Ighodalo.
The family of Okpebholo who are from different political parties decided to come under a single umbrella to declare support for the aspiration of Ighodalo.
The carnival-like atmosphere witnessed not just only the members of the family but also women, youths, and other members of the community, all chanting Ighodalo’s name and affirming that he is their governorship candidate for the election.
Ighodalo visited Uromi to witness the defection of some individuals to the PDP. The people of Uromi extended a warm welcome to him and his supporters with cultural dance performances that showcased the rich heritage of the Uromi Kingdom. The traditional dances and songs added color and created a convivial atmosphere during the welcoming ceremony.
The visit had great importance as it provided a crucial opportunity for Ighodalo to consolidate his campaign and as well deepen his relationship with the Okpebholo family and the wider Amedokhian community of Uromi. During the visit, he shared his vision and aspirations for the people of Uromi and the entire Edo State.
During the event, the head of the Okpebholo dynasty, Hon Engr. Felix Okpebholo and Barr. Patrick Okpebholo, a grassroots politician and mobilizer, who recently dumped the Labour Party for the PDP, said that the unified stance underscores the family’s belief in Ighodalo’s ability to steer Edo State towards prosperity and fulfillment of its potential.
Ighodalo expressed his profound gratitude to the family for the support and reception and promised not to let anyone down. He assured his audience that gathered to welcome him, of his unwavering dedication to their cause, pledging to uphold the values of integrity, accessibility, and inclusivity in whatever he will do in the state.
They also vowed to work together to ensure the victory of Ighodalo in the upcoming polls.
Ighodalo, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of unity and collective action in realizing their shared dreams for a brighter future and a prosperous Edo State.
Also speaking, former Speaker of Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon Friday Itulah thanked the House of Okpebholo and the good people of Uromi for the warm reception accorded the PDP candidate.
It would be recalled that Ighodalo is contesting against Senator Monday Okpebholo of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Barrister Olumide Akpata of the Labour Party (LP), among other parties in the forthcoming September 21, governorship election of Edo state.
