Paragraph 1: A Call for Unity and Progress in Edo State
The Deputy Governor of Edo State, Dennis Idahosa, has issued a fervent appeal for unity and cohesion within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the wider community of Edo State. Addressing party leaders at a New Year gathering in Benin City, Idahosa emphasized the need to transcend past grievances and work together to propel both the party and the state towards greater heights. Acknowledging the party’s recent electoral victory in the September 21, 2024 governorship election, he stressed that sustained unity is paramount for Governor Monday Okpebholo to effectively implement his developmental agenda for the state. This call for unity underscores the importance of collective action and collaboration in achieving progress and prosperity for Edo State.
Paragraph 2: Addressing Divisions and Embracing Collaboration
Recognizing the existence of internal divisions within the APC, the deputy governor urged members to set aside their differences and unite behind the Okpebholo-led administration. He emphasized that the collective goal of delivering democratic dividends to the people of Edo State should supersede any factional interests. Idahosa called on party members to use the New Year gathering as an opportunity to bridge divides and forge a unified front. He highlighted the importance of a strong and cohesive party in supporting the governor’s efforts to fulfill his campaign promises and improve the lives of Edo citizens.
Paragraph 3: Edo South’s Role in Leading the Unity Charge
Idahosa specifically called upon the leaders of Edo South to take the lead in fostering unity within the party. He stressed the importance of the region’s seven local government areas working in harmony to strengthen the APC and, consequently, the state as a whole. This appeal to Edo South reflects the region’s strategic significance and its potential to serve as a model of unity for the rest of the state. The deputy governor’s message emphasized that by working together, party members in Edo South can contribute significantly to the overall development and progress of Edo State.
Paragraph 4: Veteran Leaders Echo the Call for Unity
Prominent figures within the APC, including a former deputy governor, Lucky Imasuen, and former governorship candidate, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, echoed Idahosa’s call for unity. Imasuen urged party supporters to reject divisive tendencies and instead work collaboratively for the betterment of Edo State. He emphasized that unity is essential for the success of Governor Okpebholo’s leadership and the realization of his vision for the state. Ize-Iyamu, meanwhile, stressed that the party should prioritize unity and shun those who seek to sow discord. He reminded members of the collaborative spirit that had led to their recent electoral victory and urged them to maintain this unity to ensure the party effectively serves the people of Edo State.
Paragraph 5: Beyond Unity: Focusing on Performance and Delivery
Ize-Iyamu further emphasized the need for the party to focus on performance and delivering tangible benefits to the people of Edo State. He called for an end to internal bickering, backbiting, and other negative behaviors that could hinder the party’s progress and undermine its ability to govern effectively. He stressed that genuine unity within the APC would pave the way for Governor Okpebholo’s administration to implement sound policies and programs that would improve the lives of Edo citizens. This emphasis on performance and delivery underscores the importance of translating political unity into concrete actions that benefit the people.
Paragraph 6: The Path Forward: Collective Action for a Stronger Edo State
The overarching message from the New Year gathering was clear: unity is paramount for the progress of both the APC and Edo State. The deputy governor, supported by other influential figures within the party, urged members to set aside their differences and work together to achieve their shared goals. This call for unity is not merely a plea for harmony within the party; it is a recognition that collective action is essential for building a stronger and more prosperous Edo State. By working together, the APC can effectively support Governor Okpebholo’s administration in delivering on its promises and realizing its vision for the state. The future of Edo State hinges on the ability of its leaders and citizens to embrace unity and work collaboratively towards a common purpose.