In the lead-up to the upcoming elections, Labour Party candidate, Mr. Olumide Akpata has faced numerous challenges. In this interview, Akpata discusses the challenges including direct attacks and the zoning debate, which have only strengthened his resolve. Despite being from the same region as Governor Godwin Obaseki, Mr. Akpata argues against applying zoning principles across party lines. He emphasizes his commitment to equitable development throughout the state, with a vision that transcends tribal affiliations.
How confident are you about winning the election, considering the attacks you have faced and the issue of zoning?
Attacks have only made me stronger and propelled my candidacy further. I’m confident because the people are behind us. Rigging has become difficult; what we see more now is violence. But with the people’s support and proper security, we can ensure a fair election.How ‘pregnant’ passenger stole my car, made me unconscious – 43-yr-old man narrates experience0:00 / 0:00
Regarding zoning, the current governor is from the same area as me, but zoning doesn’t transfer between parties. The Labour Party decided to open up the primaries to the best candidate, and I emerged as the winner. My focus is on development, not tribe. If I win, there will be an egalitarian spread of development across the state.
You are a successful lawyer. Why do you want to leave your comfort zone to be the governor of Edo State?
There’s a Benin parable that says even if there is only one wealthy person in the family, we are all poor. My motivation is to pull more people out of poverty and neglect. I joined the Labour Party because, if you look at our logo, you see a father, mother, and child. People should be at the center of governance and policy.
In Nigeria, I see that people have been removed from the equation. It’s in our best interest to take a keen interest in what’s going on. We just saw the protests a few days ago. We are sitting on a keg of gunpowder. Just one matchstick, and it will blow. We need to improve the welfare of our people.
You’re coming from the private sector and moving into the public sector. What exactly are you bringing to the table that’s different?
I will put people at the heart of governance. When I say people are no longer in the equation, I mean it. We need to allocate resources in a way that impacts the greatest number of people. Edo State earns close to N17 billion a month. What are we doing with those resources to improve lives? Government should provide a better life for the people, protection of life, property, security, and a good life.
For example, the current government pulled down a hospital to build a museum. That cannot be right. We still have a deficit in healthcare infrastructure. I would build more hospitals instead of a museum. It’s not your money; you’re just a caretaker of other people’s money. Resource allocation should benefit the greatest number of people.
Governance is not rocket science. It’s the management of people and resources. I’ve run a law firm with 120 people and the Nigerian Bar Association with 128 branches nationwide. It’s management, but our politicians make it look like witchcraft. If you are intent on providing good governance, you will do well.
Agriculture is often talked about as having great potential. How are you going to make agriculture truly impact the people?
Agriculture has the potential to transform our economy, but we’ve been spoiled by looking for instant gratification. Unlike oil, agriculture has a long lead time from planting to harvesting. However, the impact of agriculture on any economy cannot be overstated. We will not pay lip service to agriculture. We want to ignite a revolution in that sector.
Government must be the first off-taker, subsidizing farming implements, fertilizers, and pesticides. After that, the government should buy the produce from farmers and sell it at a subsidized rate. We will establish farm settlements in every local government area, with storage facilities and agro-allied processing zones. This will create jobs and improve the economy of rural areas.
Rural-urban migration, especially with teachers, is a concern. How will you address this and ensure the development of rural areas?
Rural-urban migration happens because there are no viable economies in rural areas. Agriculture, as I mentioned, will fire up the economy. Infrastructure is key—roads, drainage, and power must be provided. People will move to these areas if they have basic amenities.
For example, one of the communities has had no electricity for 10 years, which forces people to move away. If infrastructure and viable economies are in place, people will stay in rural areas.
What are your plans for women and children, and how do you intend to leverage technology in your plans?
I grew up with women, so I believe in gender equality. However, I have become more sensitive to the discrimination women face. As a matter of policy, my government will ensure significant representation of women in the cabinet with 40-50 percent. We will also provide access to credit for women traders and market women, similar to what Abia State has done.
For children, the best thing you can give them is a good education, and healthcare is also crucial. We must work with the church, schools, traditional institutions, and families to rebuild our value system. Technology is vital, and I plan to build a University of Information and Communication Technology in Akoko-Edo to train the next generation in tech.
Source: The Vanguard
