The September 19th Edo 2020 election is already here with us in the sense that it is not a matter of months or years anymore but days. With the intrigues and frenzy generated so far, little optimism pervades the landscape but apprehension has gripped not just the political terrain but the economic and government business in general.
Though there are 14 political parties contesting the election, the election boils down to just two, viz: the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressive Congress (APC).
The incumbent governor is of the PDP, having recently defected from the APC, while the hitherto dominant party, the APC is fielding Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu. The same persons are contesting, but on different platform (parties)
In 2016 , Obaseki contested and won as the APC’s candidate ,. On the other hand Pastor Osagie Iza-Iyamu who was the PDP flag bearer in 2016 is gunning for the same position, but under the platform of the APC.
In this report, we shall be looking at the prospects and chances of both candidates and other factors that would sway votes in their favour.
THREAT OF VIOLENCE
Edo 2020 elections are largely coordinated and conducted in ambience and serenity. But that optimism is being threatened by the upsurge in violence being witnessed at various times within the past months has raised questions on the safety of lives and properties, before, during and after the election.
The rate of violence and violent activities reached a crescendo with the invasion of the revered palace of the Benin monarch, Omo’ noba n, Edo uku akpolokpolo , Oba Ewuare the second. On Saturday, 2020. That singular act has raised palpable fears among the people that ” if the highly esteemed and respected Oba of the kingdom can have his palace and royal abode desecrated by the ” over ambitious” politicians” what does it portend for the common man who will cast his votes, especially when results doesn’t favour a particular candidate?
The threat of violence will definitely determine voter’s turnout. It will determine the level of apathy as some would rather be in the confines of their homes for safety reasons than endanger their lives by going out to vote and be maimed or even killed.
The traditional monarch, Oba Eware 2 has however, spoken passionately and admonished politicians and the various parties to call all their thugs to order and ensure that they create an atmosphere for citizens, and the freedom to vote for candidate of their choice, to enable us have a peaceful elections within all polling units and parts of the state.
THE ESAN AGENDA
The Esan people occupy the Edo Central, Senatorial district. Since the advent of democracy in 1999, they have only had a shot at the governorship through Senator (Prof) Oseriemen Osunbor . That regime was cut short and abruptly ended when Comrade Adams Oshiomole won at the appeal court which bade farewell to Osunbor’s regime in the year 2008. With Oshiomole completing his tenure in 2016 it was thought that he would oblige the Esan’s agitations, but surprisingly chose a Benin man, the incumbent governor, Godwin Obaseki as the next governor despite the hues and cries from the Esans who felt cheated because handing it to Obaseki means that the Benins would have been in power for 16 years by the time Obaseki leaves in 2024. It is this scenario that will also determine who wins and who does not.
Gift Joseph Okpakorese
Staff Writer
