The governorship candidate of Labour Party (LP) in Edo, Olumide Akpata has accrued the state’s challenges to “lack of leadership”.
Akpata, whilst speaking during an interview on Arise TV on Tuesday, criticised the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) administration, referring to its governance as “wicked and irresponsible.”
He argued that the successes in states like Abia and Anambra gives emphasis to the importance of efficient leadership.
Akpata expressed his panic over Edo’s degenerating infrastructure, emphasizing the poor condition of Uhiele Grammar School in Esan LGA, which he described as resembling a “war zone.”
“Everything rises and falls on leadership, and it is the absence of leadership that has put us where we are,” Akpata said.
“I have gone round Edo state five times now, and it is the same story across the state. I went to a school, Uhiele grammar school in Esan local government, founded in 1970; it looks like a war zone.”
The LP gubernatorial candidate also addressed the prevailing mistrust among the electorates, acknowledging that the people have lost faith in politicians because of past negative experiences.
“My first challenge as a new politician is confronting people who don’t believe anymore. The trust deficit is so wide,” he said.
He, however, promised to focus on four key areas: electricity, agriculture, security, and education and health, if elected.
Akpata stressed that these sectors are crucial for driving development and improving the lives of the Edo people.