APC chieftain tasks Tinubu on Edo Ministerial slot

Following the nomination of his Ministers and screening by the Senate, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Edo State, John Mayaki, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to accord the State special consideration in his cabinet.

Mayaki in an open letter to President Tinubu made available to journalists on Monday in Abuja argued that an important ministerial portfolio for the state would put the party on a strong footing to retrieve power from the PDP in the 2024 governorship election.

He said the appeal has become necessary as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) -led administration in the state has been very hostile to members of the APC, adding that having two Ministers from the state will make the party stronger in the state.

The open letter entitled, “Why Edo State deserves special consideration,” noted that “Our voices have been suppressed, and we have experienced hostility from the incumbent administration. The absence of a level playing field has been detrimental to our engagement in the political process.

“I must also highlight the unfortunate events that unfolded during the 2020 governorship election in our state. The lack of substantial support from the government at the centre and the outcome of the election underscores the need for a reinvigorated approach as we approach the upcoming election year. We require all the encouragement and backing possible to secure a victory that reflects the aspirations of our party and the electorate.

“In light of these circumstances, Mr President, I respectfully request your kind consideration for Edo State to receive special attention in your budding administration. Specifically, I urge you to consider granting Edo State two ministerial positions. While I acknowledge that this request is coming later than desired, the importance of strengthening our party’s presence and prospects in the state cannot be overstated.

“I implore you to contemplate affording Edo State a significant portfolio within your yet-to-be formed cabinet. This viable portfolio could serve as a beacon of hope for our members, galvanizing our efforts to reclaim power from the incumbent PDP government.”