I Concur That Akoko-Edo Has Been Treated Unfairly and I Will Vigorously Reverse It – Asue Ighodalo, PDP Candidate

Francis John, TipsNews USA, Editor Publisher

Press Release

Igarra, Edo State: The Akoko-Edo Development Association, also known as Akoko-Edo Forum, hosted PDP Governorship candidate Mr. Asue Ighodalo for a two-hour discussion with local stakeholders. This session, part of the “Meet the Candidates” series, provided a platform for candidates to present their plans for Akoko-Edo LGA.

Mr. Ighodalo highlighted his experience in the private sector and roles on Governor Adams Oshiomhole’s and Governor Godwin Obaseki’s economic teams. He emphasized that his administration will prioritize security, infrastructure, and industrialization.

Throughout the discussion, Akoko-Edo’s marginalization was a central theme. Stakeholders noted the LGA’s undivided status since 1962, the absence of higher educational institutions and infrastructure, disparity in appointments, and the fact that only three judges have been appointed from the LGA since the state’s creation.

In response, Mr. Ighodalo stated, “I agree that Akoko-Edo has been treated unfairly, and I will address it under my watch. I’ll bend over backward to ensure no part of the state is left behind.” He promised to create an LCDA from the current LGA despite constitutional challenges, using models from Lagos State and other creative solutions.

He pledged that within his first year as governor, Akoko-Edo would have a functional university, full representation at the highest government levels, a constructive way to create LCDAs, and quality teachers in schools. He announced plans to break ground for a University of Mining and Geosciences soon and ensure it begins operation promptly if elected.

Mr. Ighodalo also proposed returning some missionary schools to their original owners for better management and improving the EDOBEST initiative. Addressing healthcare, he lamented the lack of functional government hospitals and healthcare providers in rural areas. He proposed incentives to attract and retain healthcare providers and improvements in tertiary health institutions and laboratories. He also committed to enhancing veterinary services in the LGA.

To achieve these plans, Mr. Ighodalo emphasized building “trust in governance” to access global funds for developmental projects. He promised to create a business-friendly environment and eliminate multiple taxations through a one-stop tax processing program.

Mr. Ighodalo’s plans include establishing three power generation centers in each senatorial zone to reduce transmission and distribution challenges, spreading industrial development, and leveraging the state’s traditional institutions and landscapes for tourism. He noted Akoko-Edo’s rich mineral resources and beautiful tourist sites, drawing comparisons to South Africa and Spain.

He acknowledged the unique security challenges faced by Akoko-Edo due to its boundaries with Ondo, Kogi, Owan East, and Etsako West LGAs. He outlined plans to fund and equip state security outfits to curb criminal activities.

Additionally, Mr. Ighodalo proposed creating an economic development agency in each senatorial zone, reviving moribund companies, prioritizing the digital economy, and connecting towns to rail lines and roads. He emphasized the need to focus on Akoko-Edo, create LCDAs, and invest in the area.

Addressing the lack of sports facilities, he pledged to revive school inter-house sports and competitions to engage youths and keep them away from criminal activities.

Mr. Ighodalo promised to move the seat of government around wards to better understand and address the people’s needs. He reassured Akoko-Edo residents that their misgivings would be resolved, stating, “We must ensure we are secure,” and vowed that by the end of his tenure, Akoko-Edo would have LCDAs.

Sincerely,

Barr. (Mrs.) Mary Opii
For: Akoko-Edo Development Association

Hashtags

#AsueIghodalo #PDP #AkokoEdo #EdoState #Governorship #MeetTheCandidates #Development #Infrastructure #Education #Healthcare #Security #Industrialization

Links

Akoko-Edo Development Association
PDP Official Website
Meet the Candidates Series