A pro-development group in Benin City, known as the Concerned Edo Citizens, held a press conference on Monday, passionately urging electorates to vote for candidates who prioritize the people’s collective interest in the upcoming elections.
During the conference, Solomon Idiogbe, speaking on behalf of the group’s conveners, called on the people of Edo State to reject those who betrayed their trust and denied them proper representation for four years due to their selfish motives and the influence of their godfathers.
Idiogbe emphasized the disappointment surrounding certain House of Assembly members who failed to fulfill their constitutional duties despite being elected by their constituents.
He emphasized that the upcoming Edo State House of Assembly election is an opportunity to rectify past mistakes and determine the peace and progress of the state.
He said, “There are mixed feelings about some House of Assembly members who were duly elected by their constituents but failed to perform their constitutional duties as expected.
“The next Edo State House of Assembly election on Saturday is an avenue to set the records straight and determine the peace and progress of Edo state. We should understand that it is beyond casting our votes or exercising our fundamental rights as citizens.”
He stressed that casting votes is not only about exercising citizens’ rights but also about making informed choices for the betterment of the state.
Highlighting the importance of electing candidates who can genuinely represent the collective interests of the people, Idiogbe urged voters to carefully assess the competence, track records, and legislative capacity of candidates before casting their votes.
The group strongly condemned individuals driven by personal vendettas, warning that such pursuits could lead to crisis and disrupt the existing peace in the state. They emphasized the need to prioritize the smooth transition of government through a democratic process in 2024.