By: Ayonote Williams
As Edo State approaches its next election, it is essential to assess the performance of Governor Godwin Obaseki during his eight-year tenure. Despite numerous promises to improve various sectors, many have fallen short of expectations. Now, Governor Obaseki is attempting to impose his godson, Asue Ighodalo, of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who has overseen the state’s economic system as an officer in Obaseki’s administration. It’s important to remember that eloquent speeches does not equate to actual development in governance. The good people of Edo State cannot be fooled again by mere promises and Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). Here’s a critical look at 20 significant pledges that remain unfulfilled:
1. *200,000 Jobs*: Despite the promise to create 200,000 jobs, unemployment remains a pressing issue and Edo State now turned fruad capital in Nigeria; Yahoo and Yohoo+.
2. *Specialist Hospital*: The proposed specialist hospital aimed at improving healthcare has yet to materialize.
3. *Edo North Airport*: Plans for an airport in Edo North were announced, but no visible progress has been made.
4. *192 Health Centers*: The commitment to establish 192 health centers across the state remains unachieved.
5. *Gelegele Seaport*: The ambitious Gelegele Seaport project has not seen any tangible development; zero percent.
6. *18 Industrial Parks*: The promise to develop 18 industrial parks to boost local industry has not been realized.
7. *Palliatives*: Promised palliatives to support vulnerable populations have not been adequately provided but stolen.
8. *C.N.G Buses*: Introduction of CNG buses for eco-friendly transportation is still awaited.
9. *Comrade Buses*: The commitment to reintroduce the Comrade buses for affordable transport has not been met.
10. *Bendel Brewery*: The revival of Bendel Brewery, once a major economic contributor, remains a promise unfulfilled.
11. *E.C.T.S*: The Edo City Transport Service (ECTS) has seen minimal improvements despite assurances of enhancement.
12. *Street Lights*: Many areas in Edo State remain without the promised street lighting, affecting safety and security.
13. *Roads/Drainages*: The promise to upgrade roads and drainage systems has not been fully realized, with many areas still suffering from poor infrastructure.
14. *Ikpoba River Dredging*: The planned dredging of Ikpoba River to prevent flooding has not commenced.
15. *AAU Revamp*: The much-needed revamp of Ambrose Alli University (AAU) is yet to be seen, affecting educational standards.
16. *Build 6 Burnt Markets*: Rebuilding of the six markets that were destroyed by fire remains an unfulfilled commitment.
17. *Security*: Despite promises to improve security, crime rates remain a significant concern for residents.
18. *Digital Ticketing*: The implementation of a digital ticketing system for public transport has not been achieved.
19. *Local Transportation*: Improvement in local transportation infrastructure and services is still lacking.
20. *Empathy*: There have been numerous complaints about the administration’s lack of empathy and responsiveness to the needs of the people.
Edo State needs a compassionate leader, one who intends to bring governance to the doorsteps of all Edolites. The state deserves a performer, someone with integrity, and above all, a true Edo man. As voters head to the polls on September 21, it is crucial to critically evaluate Governor Obaseki’s track record and consider whether the state has received the transformative leadership it was promised. Enough with the MOUs and empty promises; the people of Edo State deserve genuine development and accountability in governance.