The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has strongly denounced the state government’s recently announced plan to establish a state-owned airline.
In a statement released on Friday, PDP Publicity Secretary Mr. Dan Osa-Ogbegie characterized the proposal as a misallocation of resources, indicative of a disconnect between the government and the needs of Edo residents.
The PDP’s criticism follows Governor Monday Okpebholo’s meeting with Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo in Abuja, where the airline initiative was revealed. Mr. Osa-Ogbegie argued that the government’s focus should be on addressing the state’s deteriorating infrastructure and stalled development projects, rather than investing in a capital-intensive and technically challenging venture like an airline. He pointed to the failures of similar state-owned airlines in Nigeria’s past as a cautionary tale.
Highlighting the dilapidated condition of Benin City, Mr. Osa-Ogbegie lamented the poor state of roads, urban planning, drainage systems, and municipal services. He asserted that the city, with its rich history and potential, has been neglected.
The PDP also raised concerns about stalled and deteriorating inherited projects, which they believe are undermining investor confidence and hindering economic progress.
The party criticized the governor for allegedly pursuing “white elephant projects” that lack tangible benefits, citing ongoing flyover projects as examples of misplaced priorities. They urged the government to abandon the airline proposal and instead concentrate on initiatives that directly improve the lives of Edo residents and stimulate sustainable growth.
“Edo does not need an airline to fly above its problems. It needs a government ready to confront them on the ground,” Mr. Osa-Ogbegie stated, warning that failure to refocus would reinforce perceptions of an administration lacking direction, competence, and a clear development strategy.
