Focus on Governance, Not Politics’ — CRPP Fires at Edo Govt, Afegbua

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By Elvis Omoregie, Benin 

The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has intensified its criticism of the Edo State Government, accusing Governor Monday Okpebholo of failing to address worsening poverty, insecurity, and economic hardship across the state.

The group also took a swipe at the Commissioner for Communication and Strategy, Kaseem Afegbua, describing his response to earlier criticisms as evasive and lacking in substance.

In a statement signed by its National Chairman, Dr Samson Isibor, CRPP said Afegbua’s reaction relied on “high-sounding grammar” and personal attacks rather than addressing pressing issues affecting residents.

“As the voice of the common man, we have the right to constructive criticism of any government in power. This is necessary to reawaken them to the realities on ground,” the statement said.

CRPP maintained that it had supported Okpebholo’s emergence during the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, but expressed disappointment that the governor had allegedly shifted focus from governance to political activities, including campaigning for the re-election of President Bola Tinubu.

The group challenged the state government to provide concrete responses to what it described as “non-assailable facts,” including rising cases of kidnapping, high food prices, unemployment, poor infrastructure, and declining healthcare services.

“It is an undeniable fact that Edo people are kidnapped across the three senatorial districts on a daily basis. Prices of staple foods are beyond the reach of the common man, and the state is grappling with widespread darkness and deteriorating roads,” CRPP said.

The group further dismissed allegations that it was seeking political patronage, insisting it had never approached the government for appointments or financial benefits.

CRPP also referenced recent youth protests in Benin City, questioning whether demonstrators were motivated by demands for government patronage or by genuine socio-economic concerns.

The political coalition urged the commissioner to adopt a more measured tone in public communication and focus on providing solutions rather than engaging in rhetoric.

“What Edo people need now are urgent solutions to their problems, not name-calling,” the statement added.

The group advised Governor Okpebholo to prioritise governance and security, warning that political ambitions should not overshadow the immediate needs of residents.

“Only the living will participate in future elections,” CRPP stated, urging the governor to “sit up or step aside” if governance was no longer his primary focus.

Efforts to reach Afegbua for further comments were unsuccessful as of press time.

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