A group, The Edo People For Good Governance, has issued a stern warning to Senator Monday Okpebholo, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, regarding his use of tribal narratives in his campaign ahead of the governorship election in the state.
In a press statement released on Friday and signed by its convener, Bright Omorodion, the group expressed deep concern over Senator Okpebholo’s repeated emphasis on his Esan ethnicity during his campaign tour.
The group stated that Edo State has a long-standing tradition of unity and collaboration among its diverse communities, and it warned that tribal narratives could undermine this legacy.
They reminded Senator Okpebholo that “Edo is not like Lagos, where such tribal narratives have unfortunately been allowed to thrive in the past.”
“Senator Okpebholo’s emphasis on his Esan ethnicity as the focal point of his campaign is not only misguided but also unworthy of the office he seeks.
“The governorship of Edo State should not be reduced to a contest of tribal affiliations. Our state needs a leader who will prioritize competence, character, and a vision for the future over narrow ethnic considerations,” the group declared.
The statement also urged the people of Edo State to stand firm against any candidate who seeks to exploit ethnic differences for political gain.