By Daniel Kanu
Hon. Patrick Iria Uanseru is Edo State Commissioner for Business, Trade and Cooperatives in the Godwin Obaseki-led administration.
In this encounter with Sunday Sun, he speaks on contending issues in the upcoming Edo election scheduled to hold on September 21, why the PDP is the party to beat, the non-relevance of Senator Adams Oshiomhole, Philip Shaibu factor to determine the election outcome, among other issues. Excerpt:
Edo State governorship election is quite close, how confident are you that Edo people will vote for the ruling PDP again?
We are very confident that the good people of Edo State will choose the PDP. Edo people are discerning, and as we present a candidate like Asue Ighodalo, whose track record of integrity, vision, and effective communication resonates across all strata of the state, we believe they will recognize the value he brings. Edo deserves a governor who not only understands their needs, but also has the experience and capability to deliver on those needs. The PDP is offering a future-oriented vision, one that ensures growth, unity, and development for every Edo person.
There are other big, major candidates like the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Labour Party (LP) candidates in the contest, why do you think Asue Ighodalo is the clear choice of Edo people or is it merely because it’s your party?
Ighodalo is like that rare gem you find at the bottom of a treasure chest. While others might flash and dazzle on the surface, he stands out for his depth, substance and undeniable brilliance. For Edo people, he’s not just a choice; he’s a statement, one that says, we value leadership that communicates with clarity, integrity and vision. In a state with as many dialects as there are cultural nuances, Asue speaks the language that cuts across them all: competence. His flawless communication and deep understanding of the issues make him not just the ‘man wey sabi’ but the man who sees beyond the immediate. He is not just promising to build bridges; he’s promising to connect us, in every sense of the word. So why is he the clear choice? Because Edo people know that in the game of politics, we need more than just players. We need a leader who understands the rules and elevates the game. Asue is that leader that Edo people need.
You seem to speak with so much confidence, has Governor Godwin Obaseki done well to warrant Edo people voting for his party in the September 21 election? Some critics say he underperformed?
Governor Godwin Obaseki’s achievements in Edo State certainly stand out across the various sectors, creating a solid foundation for voters to consider the success of the PDP in the upcoming election. The Edo Basic Education Sector Transformation (EdoBEST) programme has drastically transformed the public education system, introducing digital learning tools that benefit both students and teachers. Additionally, the introduction of the EdoGeographic Information Service (EdoGIS) and Edo Health Information System (EdoHIS) show a commitment to using technology for governance and public services, ensuring better access to land management and healthcare systems. Healthcare infrastructure has also received attention. The refurbishment and upgrade of the School of Health have equipped aspiring healthcare professionals with better training facilities, ensuring a skilled workforce. The modernization of Stella Obasanjo Hospital reflects the state’s focus on providing accessible, high-quality medical services, positioning Edo State as a leader in healthcare provision in the region. The government has also done well in the area of developing Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). With various empowerment schemes, MSMEs have been nurtured, resulting in the growth of Edo’s agro-food industry. The sight of Proudly Edo processed agro-foods on supermarket shelves across the state is a testament to the growth of local businesses and value addition to the state’s agricultural produce. Furthermore, the Edo Oil Palm Programme has attracted major investments, revitalizing the palm oil industry and positioning the state as a leading agro-industrial hub. This is a significant driver of job creation and economic growth in the state. Governor Obaseki’s administration has also reformed the civil service, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the public sector. His reforms have empowered workers, provided continuous training, and improved their welfare. Prompt salary payments and the implementation of pension reforms are key indicators of this commitment. These achievements reflect a progressive and forward-thinking administration, which offers a solid basis for supporting the continuation of this developmental agenda. What do you expect critics to say? What do you expect your opponent to say? They are just there to criticize even when your performance is outstanding. The record is there, the laudable projects, tangible and intangible are all there to see.
Like I pointed out earlier, your candidate is not the only major one in the contest, the candidate of All Progressives Congress (APC), Monday Okpebholo, is waxing strong by the day, is Asue Ighodalo politically strong enough to defeat him or Akpata of LP ?
It is not true that Monday Okpebholo is waxing stronger because several polls have already shown that our candidate, Asue Ighodalo, is leading in this election. Ighodalo’s strength lies in more than just political rallies or temporary spikes in attention. He has captured the hearts and minds of Edo people through his competence, integrity, and ability to communicate effectively with every community as I pointed out earlier. Unlike other candidates who may be riding on momentary popularity, Ighodalo’s focus has always been on providing solutions that address the state’s long-term needs. His proven track record of results and his deep understanding of governance gives him a decisive edge. We are confident that as more people recognize the value he brings, his strength will continue to grow, securing a clear path to victory for Edo’s future.
Are you not worried about the defection of some strong PDP members, including the Deputy Governor, Philip Shaibu, to APC? Don’t you think it will have an adverse effect on the electoral fortune of PDP in the coming election?
Thank you for the question because I was expecting it. I am not at all worried. The defection of a few individuals, including Philip Shaibu, may make headlines, but it doesn’t diminish the robust foundation of the PDP in Edo State. Political bigwigs who have outspent their political capital and are no longer in sync with the current political thinking may seek a fresh start elsewhere, but that doesn’t mean they still hold the influence they once did. Edo State politics is undergoing a transformation. Voters are increasingly aware of the need for effective leadership, communication, and the ability to represent the interests of the state at large, not just personal ambitions. Defections are inevitable in politics, but they often reveal who has stayed true to the values and vision that inspire the people. In contrast, the PDP remains focused on providing a leadership that resonates with the electorate, especially as Edo people seek progress over outdated loyalties. As the state looks to the future, it’s the party’s alignment with the people’s needs that will ultimately determine its success. Those who defected may simply be out of touch with this new dynamic. The political capital they once held has dwindled, and it’s clear that PDP has its eyes set on forward-thinking governance, which is why we remain confident heading into the election.
In politics and in this kind of contest, grassroots politics play a vital role, how connected is Asue Ighodalo in Edo State, and what is his relationship with the Benin palace?
Asue Ighodalo is a well-groomed individual who holds deep respect for Edotraditions and understands the cultural significance of the palace. His relationship with the Benin palace reflects his appreciation of our heritage and the pivotal role the palace plays in Edo affairs. Ighodalo’s strong ties toEdo State stem not just from his family roots but from his active involvement in fostering the values, development, and leadership that align with the traditions upheld by the Benin monarchy. His connection to the palace is one of mutual respect, as he appreciates the centrality of the palace in the cultural, social, and political fabric of Edo society.
Still talking about influence in politics, Senator Adams Oshiomhole, who happens to be a former governor of the state, is very popular in Edo State, and he’s at the forefront, leading Monday Okpebholo’s campaign. Are you not worried that it might jeopardize the chances of Asue Ighodalo?
While it is true that Adams Oshiomhole is a prominent figure in Edo State politics, popularity alone doesn’t always translate to success at the polls. The election is about more than a single personality. It is about the values, vision, and capacity of the candidates themselves. Asue Ighodalo offers a breath of fresh air, with a wealth of experience, impeccable communication skills, and a clear, inclusive vision for the state. His campaign is driven by substance, not just personality. While Adams Oshiomhole may support Monday Okpebholo, the people of Edo are discerning. They understand that governance requires more than political clout. It requires a leader who is prepared, knowledgeable, and capable of navigating Edo’s diverse and complex challenges. I believe Ighodalo’s strong qualities and his connection with the needs of the people will resonate, regardless of who stands in opposition.
