The Edo State APC Urges PDP’s Osarodio Ogie to Resign as SSG Ahead of Governorship Election

The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has issued a formal call for Osarodio Ogie, the deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the upcoming September 21, 2024, governorship election, to resign from his position as the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) without delay.

Emperor Jarret Tenebe, the acting chairman of the Edo State APC, emphasized this request in a statement released to journalists in Benin City, highlighting concerns about the potential misuse of public resources. Tenebe argued that Ogie’s dual role as both SSG and a candidate in the gubernatorial election could violate public service rules, which prohibit public servants from using state resources for political purposes.

“With just 72 days remaining until the governorship election, it is imperative that Mr. Ogie steps down from his role as SSG to avoid any conflicts of interest and to uphold the integrity of the electoral process,” Tenebe stated firmly.

In response to these assertions from the APC, Chris Nehikhare, the Edo State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, defended Ogie’s position, asserting that the SSG has not contravened any laws and is acting within his rights.

“The decision regarding the resignation of the SSG will be made at the appropriate time and in accordance with legal provisions; it is not within the purview of the APC to dictate when such a resignation should occur,” Nehikhare emphasized.

The exchange underscores the ongoing political tensions and legal interpretations surrounding the roles of public officials during electoral campaigns in Edo State. As the situation develops, stakeholders continue to monitor how these dynamics will impact the upcoming gubernatorial election and the broader political landscape in the state.