The upcoming Edo State governorship election on September 21 has turned into a strategic contest between former allies, Senator Adam Oshiomhole and Governor Godwin Obaseki.
Although not directly competing, Oshiomhole and Obaseki are actively supporting their preferred candidates to secure the governorship position.
The current dynamic between the two politicians traces back to Oshiomhole’s pivotal role in Obaseki’s emergence as governor in 2016 against the APC leadership’s initial reservations. Obaseki’s administration faced criticism from party leaders for not being inclusive, leading to tensions between him and Oshiomhole.
In the 2020 election, Obaseki’s disqualification from the APC prompted his move to the PDP, where he secured victory against his APC rival, Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, in a significant political shift.
The ongoing campaign for the 2024 election has reignited the rivalry between Oshiomhole and Obaseki as they vigorously support their respective candidates. Oshiomhole is championing the APC candidate, while Obaseki is backing his preferred contender within the PDP.
The campaign has become a platform for Oshiomhole and Obaseki to showcase their individual achievements as former governors, with contrasting narratives emerging from both camps regarding the state’s development.
Recent exchanges between the two camps have intensified, with accusations and counter-accusations creating a charged atmosphere in the lead-up to the election. Oshiomhole has raised concerns about electoral malpractice, while Obaseki’s team has refuted these claims.
Observers have noted that the focus on personal vendettas between Oshiomhole and Obaseki has overshadowed substantive policy discussions during the campaign. They emphasize the importance of voters critically evaluating each party’s promises and avoiding being swayed by political theatrics.
“It is imperative for parties to prioritize issue-based campaigning over settling personal scores, ensuring a transparent and credible electoral process on September 21,” a social commentator remarked.