By George Etakibuebu
In an unprecedented show of support and enthusiasm for Dr Asue Ighodalo’s candidacy, a support group, the Asue Ighodalo Movement (AIM), has inaugurated a magnificent independent campaign office for the Peoples Democratic Party flag-bearer in the September 21 governorship election in Edo State. AIM will use the office to propagate the messages and vision of the candidate to the people of the state and prosecute its campaigns for him and the party from there ahead of the election.
The sprawling building located in the heart of Benin City at Aimure Street, GRA, opposite Ebenezer Primary School, Off Ihama Road, was thrown open for use on Wednesday with fanfare, typical of all political gatherings and campaigns.
The inauguration which was attended by a large crowd of party chieftains and stalwarts from various local governments across the state, featured powerful speeches and music as the supporters danced to the campaign songs blaring from giant speakers.
The atmosphere was electrified when Ighodalo arrived the venue to the warm welcome of party stalwarts who had gathered at the venue.
Speaking at the inauguration, AIM’s National Coordinator, Hon Daniel Asekhame, who also donated the huge building, impressed it on all that they owe it a duty to give Edo State a man who is competent, capable, compassionate and has the vision to move the state forward into the realm of development and prosperity. He invited them to vote for Ighodalo and the PDP. He equally urged them not to be too tired on the day of election, saying they should sacrifice just two hours to wait on the queue and cast their votes for Ighodalo.
“Today, we are here to tell all of you that you all have it as a duty to vote for a good governor who can lead the state aright. A man of competence, capacity, character, compassion and vision. He will not fail you. We know that Ighodalo is capable and that he is the best man for the job.
“Don’t feel too tired on the day of election. Only two hours, please stay on the queue and vote for Ighodalo and the PDP. Don’t say I am tired. Don’t fixed another thing for that day. Go out and vote on that day. Then, tell others before that day. Ighodalo.. E go Do Am !” He admonished the supporters who proudly dorned their branded Yellow face-cap with a conspicuously visible AIM logo to stay strong in the pursuit of the goals of AIM.
In a brief speech punctuated by loud applause and approval, Ighodalo thanked AIM’s National Coordinator. He also thanked the sponsor of the event, Aare Frank Momoh, and all those present, saying their commitment was outstanding. He assured them that he would do his best possible to bring a remarkable developments to the state and make it a place where people feel safe to live, to do business and to relax. He insisted that if voted into power, he would not fail or disappoint them.
Ighodalo was later taken into the facility and conducted round the offices.
Decorated with large banners of Ighodalo and his running mate and of the colours of the PDP, the campaign office boasts of a large parking space for outdoor activities also.