Edo 2024: Pro-Obaseki PDP Backs Ogbeide-Ihama, amidst Edo South Leaders Resounding Support…BoT Member Proclaims 'Ose Ne'

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By Correspondent

A new lexicon was added to the political dictionary of Edo State yesterday when Engr. Omoregie Ogbeide-Ihama, a leading aspirant of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2024 Edo Governorship Election kicked off his campaign.

The atmosphere inside and around Bishop Kelly Centre located inside St. Paul Catholic Church Ground, where leaders drawn from the Seven Local Government Areas of Edo State were gathered to receive Ogbeide-Ihama was understandably charged in anticipation to hear his ‘Edo New Vision’.

The arrival of several power bike ridders led the surge of men and women volunteers in Yellow Fez Cap that heralded Ogbeide-Ihama’s arrival at the Catholic ground. The two term Federal Legislator and the audience turned the gathering into a carnival-like party, as he danced his way into the arena.

While addressing the Edo South leaders and party faithful, Engr. Ogbeide-Ihama presented his ‘Expression of Interest’ and Nomination Form’ to the leaders as a symbol of his readiness to vie for the governorship position.

He explained that he was contesting to be a governor for all senatorial district and not for any particular zone of the state. In response, the Chairman, Edo South Senatorial District, Mr. Nosa Ogieva said, the leaders of will not engage in the wasteful adventure of endorsement which according to him, was capable of dividing the party. rather, he explained that, Ogbeide-Ihama as a son of Edo South has received their blessings.

A chieftain and member of the PDP Board of Trustees, Mr. Charles Idahosa traced the history of how Ogbeide-Ihama was prevailed on to step down for Governor Obaseki in 2020 and how the slogan – ‘Togba’ was encapsulated.

According to the BoT member, he had admonished Ogbeide-Ihama then, that it was not his time for him to be governor of Edo State. He concluded that, it was now his time to become Edo State Governor, and proclaimed a curative slogan of ‘Ose Ne’. Meaning it is time for Ogbeide-Ihama to voted as the Governor of Edo state, since he relinquished the position for governor Godwin Obaseki in 2020.

“Today, before all of you, I am inspired again to say, ‘Osene’.” The no nonsense politician charged the enthusiastic crowd to ‘chant ‘Ose Ne’ as response to the shout of PDP.

The slogan captures the essence of a new era, emphasizing Ogbeide-Ihama’s readiness to lead and shape the future of Edo State.

Observers submitted that the ‘Ose Ne’ slogan “…serves as a symbolic shift in leadership dynamics, indicating the ascent of Ogbeide-Ihama as a formidable figure ready to shape the destiny of the state.

“The rallying cry “Ose Ne” resonates as a clarion call, aligning with the aspirations of those who view Ogbeide-Ihama as a leader capable of steering Edo State towards progress and prosperity.

“Beyond symbolizing a change in leadership, the slogan underscores Ogbeide-Ihama’s preparedness to confront challenges and seize future opportunities. It mirrors his commitment to actively shape Edo State’s trajectory, showcasing leadership qualities and a vision for enhancing the well-being of its residents.

“As “Ose Ne” reverberates, it transcends a mere political campaign, it signifies a call for a paradigm shift, emphasizing Ogbeide-Ihama’s readiness to lead and guide the state into a promising new era.

Earlier, the aspirant had made a triumphant entry into the historic. His arrival at the Benin airport generated interest amidst suspense.

Along with thousands of PDP members, they trekked from the airport to Oredo PDP Secretariat first to thank his constituent for the opportunity he received to represent them at the Federal House of Representatives. The legion of party faithful joined the long-winding line of PDP members and admirers to present him to Edo South leaders.

Ogbeide-Ihama reeled out his plan of action in his address, while at the same time, pleaded for the support of PDP leaders and members in Edo South, Chaired by Mr. Nosa Ogieva Okunbor.

A major feature of the rally was the strong support Ogbeide-Ihama received by pro-Governor Godwin Obaseki, PDP leaders that have joined force with the PDP National Vice Chairman, Chief Dan Orbih’s Legacy group to form ‘Legacy Coalition’.

Prominent leaders of Edo State PDP Legacy Coalition group that graced the occasion were Hon. Charles Idahosa, (BoT) member; Edo South Senatorial leaders including Hon Idehen Ebomoyi; Deputy State Chairman of the party, Harrison Omagbon; State Woman Leader of the party, Mrs. Tes Sorae; former Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Esosa Amadasun; former Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Orobosa Omo-Ojo JP; Mr Marttins Osakue; Dr. Larry Ogieva; Pa Oni Edigin, among others.

Speaking to the press after his impressive flag off, Ogbeide-Ihama said he was better prepared to reposition Edo State.

“If you talk about experience, I have the political and managerial experience to govern Edo. I have the managerial skills to manage humans and resources of Edo.

“I have the needed human relationship. I want to be governor of Edo and not a senatorial district. I am fully ready. All I need is your prayers. I will be governor of the whole Edo State and not a senatorial district.

“I want to bring development to Edo State. I want to empower our youths so they can stand on their own. I want to stop child mortality.

“There is no reason anyone above 70 years in Edo should lack healthcare. I want to give good free healthcare to our aged parents.

“Edo will be a state all of us would be proud of with Ogbeide-Ihama.” He said.