Kingsley Ohens reporting
Former Member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Joe Edionwele, who represented the Esan Central/Esan West/Igueben Federal Constituency, has urged politicians and stakeholders in Edo State to embrace loyalty, consistency, and unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC), warning against the growing trend of political defections driven by personal ambition.
Speaking on the evolving political landscape in Edo Central Senatorial District, Edionwele stressed that now is not the most appropriate time for party members to abandon the APC merely because of individual political aspirations. According to him, democracy thrives on patience, trust, accountability, and long-term commitment rather than political opportunism.
The former federal lawmaker expressed concern over the increasing culture of frequent party switching among some politicians, noting that while cross-carpeting may offer temporary political advantages, it often comes at the cost of public trust and personal credibility.
“Cross-carpeting may open doors for a few, but it closes the doors of trust for millions,” he stated. “Politics should not be reduced to a mere transaction where personal interests supersede collective progress and the aspirations of the people.”
Edionwele emphasized that political parties should not be treated like changing rooms where individuals switch affiliations whenever circumstances become challenging. He argued that true leadership and political maturity are demonstrated through steadfastness, resilience, and commitment to shared goals, even during difficult periods.
He particularly commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for what he described as a remarkable commitment to democratic values, electoral integrity, and the fulfillment of promises made to the people of Edo State. According to him, the governor has emerged as a beacon of hope for many citizens, especially within Edo Central, through his dedication to good governance and inclusive development.
“Governor Okpebholo has shown that leadership is about keeping one’s word, even when doing so becomes difficult. His administration continues to inspire confidence among the people and strengthen democratic institutions across the state,” Edionwele remarked.
Calling for greater unity among political leaders and stakeholders in Esanland, he urged all well-meaning citizens to rally behind the governor’s vision and actively contribute to efforts aimed at addressing developmental challenges in the region.
He further encouraged aspiring politicians to remain patient and maintain faith in the democratic process, noting that electoral setbacks should not be viewed as the end of political careers.
“The beauty of democracy is that there is always another day—a better opportunity to serve and to win. Patience, loyalty, and consistency remain essential virtues in political leadership,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Edionwele called on party faithful and residents of Edo Central to unite in dignity, strengthen the APC, and support the ongoing developmental strides of the Okpebholo administration.
With increasing infrastructural development and renewed political stability across the state, he expressed optimism that Edo State is on a path of sustained progress.
“Edo is shining, and Edo Central is shining even brighter. This is the time for unity, not division; for commitment, not convenience; and for progress, not personal ambition,” he concluded.
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