Edo Speaker apologises to constituency over re-election bid

The recent meeting in Owan West Local Government Area, where Speaker Blessing Agbebaku sought to mend fences and secure support for his re-election bid, reveals the intricate dynamics of political alignment within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State. Agbebaku's public apology to the party's leadership, particularly to Lucky Ohimai (Tarex), signifies an acknowledgment of past issues and a strategic move to harmonize with the local party structure. This act, presented as a condition for recognition, underscores the importance of grassroots support and local party authority in political maneuvering.

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I have never, and will not dispute his party leadership in Owan West.

However, the Speaker's plea for an uncontested path to his third term was met with firm resistance from the local APC members. Their rejection highlights a growing sentiment among party faithful to reward loyalty and recognize those who have consistently worked for the party's success, especially during the governor's election. The insistence on considering other aspirants like Hon. Frank Ilaboya, Barr. George Ohioma, Atafo Gold, and Juliana Ikharo, who are seen as having labored for the governor's victory, reflects a desire for equitable distribution of opportunities and a commitment to strengthening the party from the ground up.

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I am here to say, whoever I wronged in the past, whether knowingly or unknowingly, I deeply apologise. I remain committed to working for the progress of our party, the APC, and the people.

This situation presents a clear challenge for Speaker Agbebaku and potentially for the state leadership. The consensus among the Ward 11 Chairman, Lewis Ekpenga, and other members suggests that the path to re-election will require more than just an apology; it demands a demonstration of commitment and a willingness to compete fairly within the party's established processes. The emphasis on rewarding loyalty and ensuring stability by looking at aspirants who have been steadfast in their support for the party indicates a local preference for experienced and dedicated party members, a perspective that may differ from broader state-level political considerations.

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Nobody in his right senses should contemplate giving his plea a thought. Hon. Agbebaku is not the only person in Owan West qualified to aspire for this position.