Gov Obaseki deserves ‘congratulations’ for Okowa’s VP selection

I heartily congratulate you Sir, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State for the selection of your friend, political ally, and fellow Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, as the vice-presidential candidate of Alhaji Abubakar Atiku, the presidential candidate of the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2023 election. 

Although you were not selected to run with Atiku despite the massive and costly campaign you waged against the man at the forefront, the fact that the Government House in Benin City has witnessed a heavier celebration since the announcement on Thursday shows what it means.

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While it is not arguable to describe Atiku’s selection of Okowa from our brotherly and neighbouring state as one, if not your greatest achievement in office as governor since 2016, there is no immediate greater achievement for me to underline in this congratulatory message.

The fact that the respected Southern and Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum (SMBLF) have quickly and rightly nailed Okowa as a traitor while pouring cold water on his lacklustre and cheerless selection not only underscores why you are his friend but also the raison d’etre Edo State Government is celebrating his selection with all apparatchik and resources more than that of the rewarded man. 

As you work and navigate your ways through the difficult, flooded, impassable, and insecure streets of Benin City and other parts of Edo State towards your exit in 2024, this great achievement will indelibly outlast your government.

Once again, I congratulate you Mr Governor, for another of your serial exploits.

Sebastine Ebhuomhan, a journalist, writes from Abuja