Stakeholders Raises Alarm Over the Systemic Sidetracking of Akoko-Edo Again

Congratulates Gov. Okpebholo

Godwin Bello, Abuja

A group, Akoko-Edo Development Association has congratulated the newly sworn in Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo stressing that the obvious attempt to sideline Akoko-Edo who gave the highest votes to the current administration is alarming.

In a statement signed by Barr. (Mrs.) Mary Opii on behalf of the group, she stated that as His Excellency is fully aware of the serial and systematic marginalisation the local government has suffered under previous administrations

She explained that the need for making this call this early is important saying the body fear this situation, if not addressed early enough, could follow the same pattern regarding infrastructure distribution and other dividends of democracy.

According to her: ” Again, we congratulate our Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on his recent swearing-in as the new Governor of Edo State.We believe that such an area should not be sidetracked.

” We also wish to congratulate those he already appointed. However, we would like to draw His Excellency’s attention to the need to consider Akoko-Edo local government for a top position in his administration.

” As His Excellency is fully aware of the serial and systematic marginalisation the local government has suffered under previous administrations. We want to remind our Governor that available data confirmed that Akoko-Edo provided the second-largest block vote to the Governor.

“We are making this call this early because we fear this situation, if not addressed early enough, could follow the same pattern regarding infrastructure distribution and other dividends of democracy.

” We humbly call on the Governor to correct the continued marginalization of Akoko-Edo area by giving the people their deserved share of Edo State positions and infrastructure. The Governor promised Akoko-Edo people a place at the top level of state governance.

“We sincerely look forward to a situation where Akoko-Edo will not be taken seriously only during electioneering periods”, she narrated.