….. to establish Edo Diaspora Commission
By Lucky Isibor
The governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for Edo 2024 governorship election, Senator Monday Okpebholo has assured of the establishment of Edo State Diaspora Commission when elected Governor, to coordinate and harness the abundant expertise of Edos in Diaspora for the development of the state.
Senator Okpebholo made the pledge while addressing Edo people domiciled in the United States of America, Canada and other Northern and Southern America countries in a town hall meeting in Maryland, U. S. A. on Thursday, 23 May.
He pointed out that the government has thus far not given due attention to Edos in Diaspora with a view to encouraging them to avail the state of their technical and managerial expertise and assurances of safety of their investments back home and vowed to change that with the establishment of the Edo State Diaspora Commission when voted in as Governor.
“I don’t think the government has been fair to them. There is this Diaspora Commission Establishment Bill of 2017 that has been passed into law by the federal government. When I become the Governor of Edo State, I will adopt it and establish a full-fledged diaspora office to oversee the interests and well-being of our citizens living abroad. This would be done through an Executive Bill.”
“This Diaspora office would be responsible for identifying, coordinating, and organizing Diasporians who wish to contribute to the welfare and development of Edo State. The idea is that this office would enhance closer ties and expedite development within the state and its Diaspora and will be managed by a Diaspora focal person in the agency or commission.
On what he would do differently on the relationship between the Edo State government and the revered Oba of Benin which they described as frosty presently, Senator Okpebholo said: “
“It is a sacrilege to drag the Oba of Benin in the market square. The Oba Benin is the father of all. You cannot drag him out into the market square and later pretend to want to settle with him in secret. This is a sacrilege. When I become Governor, I will do things differently and consult the Oba on every issue concerning the people and the state”.
Welcoming guests earlier to the interactive session, Director for the APC Edo Diaspora Governorship Election Council, Mr Francis Okoyo assured Edo people in the Diaspora of the robust plans Senator Okpebholo has for the development of Edo State and solicited their support in his quest to govern the state.
While noting that the gathering symbolizes the strong bond between Edo people and its Diaspora, Okoyo pointed out that Okpebholo plans to make Edo State a destination where all people in Diaspora can reconnect with their roots, invest in the economy and participate in governance.
“As we approach the pivotal elections in September 2024, our unity and collective strength are essential. We must support a candidate who embodies our aspirations for Edo State – Distinguished Senator Monday Okpebholo. His vision, integrity, and commitment to our state are evident in his exemplary record, from his early service to his tenure in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Senator Monday Okpebholo has a comprehensive plan to address key issues such as infrastructure, security, economic revitalization, and youth empowerment. He is deeply committed to fostering a strong and inclusive community, both at home and abroad.
“Our role as the Edo Diaspora is vital. Our remittances, investments and advocacy
significantly contribute to Edo State’s growth. Senator Okpebholo recognizes and values our contributions, and he is committed to amplifying our efforts.
A key aspect of our Distinguished Senator Okpebholo’s vision is making Edo State a safe and welcoming place for all, especially for those wishing to return home. He aims to make Edo a destination where we can reconnect with our roots, invest in the economy, and participate in governance.
“I urge us to support our Distinguished Senator Okpebholo. Our moral and material support is crucial for a resounding victory on September 21, 2024”, he appealed.