Over two thousand Urhobo and Anioma natives of Delta State resident in Edo State have thrown their weight behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Godwin Obaseki, for the September 10, 2016 governorship election.
The Urhobo, mainly members of the Urhobo Progressive Union, said as the largest non-natives in the state, they have decided to support Mr. Obaseki in all ways possible to ensure the continued growth of the state.
Secretary of the union, Anthony Ovioto, who spoke on behalf of the president of the Benin branch of Urhobo Progressive Union and the Anioma natives at a rally for Obaseki in Benin City, on Thursday, said “we wish to inform the Comrade Governor (Adams Oshiomhole) that the Bini and the Urhobo have had a cordial relationship that has been in existence from time immemorial. I wish to remind the Comrade Governor that the Urhobo is the most highly populated ethnic group non-natives residing in Edo State. Hence, we want to pledge our unflinching loyalty and support to the government and the incoming governor. We are happy to inform you that we will work diligently with you physically and spiritually to enthrone the incoming government that is to be led by Godwin Obaseki.”
He said, “We want to remind the Governor that we the Urhobo registered in Edo State with our PVC voter’s cards are going to cast our votes for APC.
“The Anioma people have also asked me to tell you that you don’t need to say much to us. It is done!”
Responding, Oshiomhole told the people not to be deceived by appellations of people, saying not all pastors are true men of God.
According to him “what Nigeria needs today are managers in government not just running politics.
“It is easy to lie in the beer parlour to get people to vote for you but the skill and the competence you need to manage resources and deliver results requires a greater brain and a good heart and a good heart is not evident by carrying the Bible.”
On the endorsement of the governorship candidate, Oshiomhole added, “I want to thank you for your ready endorsement of Godwin Obaseki on the platform of APC for the September 10 election and with your support, we are sure he will be the next governor. But much more importantly, let me assure you that Godwin will elevate the quality of governance to a level that all of us will be proud of him.”
Responding, Obaseki thanked the Urhobo and Anioma natives for endorsing him saying he will build on the strong foundation already laid by the incumbent governor.
