By Kadiri Christopher
General Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere, rtd, mni, former Executive Director Finance and Administration of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has officially declared his intention to vie for the position of Edo State governor in the upcoming 2024 elections under the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Addressing his supporters at the APC Ward 1 in Benin City, General Airhiavbere, affectionately known as GC, asserted that his decision to contest under the APC banner stems from his belief that the party cannot afford to be in opposition to the Federal government. Emphasizing the importance of aligning with the government at the center, he stated, "We must trust the state at the Centre. We must make sure we rescue this state. Edo cannot afford to be at opposition with the Federal Government."
General Airhiavbere thus sees the task of returning Edo to APC as a crucial mission that must be accomplished. He expressed his commitment to building Edo State, citing his desire to lead the state to prosperity, economic growth, safety, and infrastructural development. Reflecting on his entry into APC in 2016, he emphasized the significance of Edo remaining under the federal government, referring to it as the heartbeat of the nation.
Drawing on his extensive background, which includes military service, private sector experience, and a prominent role in the NDDC, General Airhiavbere pledged to deploy his wealth of experience to govern Edo state effectively. He highlighted his accomplishments at the NDDC, such as securing an approved budget and initiating promotion exams for staff, vowing to replicate these successes in Edo.
"What we did in NDDC is what I want to replicate in Edo State. Our 8 months in the NDDC was like 8 years, and this is exactly what I want to replicate in Edo," he affirmed.
On the issue of zoning the Edo Governorship seat, General Airhiavbere dismissed the notion, asserting that APC must present the best candidate, and he believes he is the best. Using a metaphor, he stated, "Some people are saying there should be zoning or no zoning, but you can only zone what you have. If you don't have a daughter, you can't give her out in marriage, that is why APC must present the best candidate and I am the best."
Essentially, General Charles Ehigie Airhiavbere's aspiration for the 2024 Edo State governorship election revolves around his vision of a state that is not opposed to the Federal Government; he plans to lead Edo to prosperity, and his commitment to replicating successful governance strategies from his varied experiences.
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