No Member of Legacy PDP Met with Wike
As one of the loyal members of the former Legacy People’s Democratic Party, PDP, I read an article in Vanguard Newspaper on Sunday, titled ‘Grumbling in Edo PDP’s Legacy Group over Okpebholo’s appointments’.
The news was probably a sponsored spin orchestrated by Crusoe Osagie, the former Special Adviser on Media to Governor Godwin Obaseki (2016-2024), the erstwhile Governor of Edo State, who is still bitter about the September 21, 2024, defeat to Asue Ighodalo, Obaseki’s godson, and is currently without employment.
Aside from the evident fact that the news or story was sponsored, it lacks logic, which is typical of Crusoe Osagie’s deceitful stories, who unfortunately also holds the position of a pastor.
Initially, the Legacy PDP underwent a metamorphosis, evolving into the Legacy Coalition, as some APC members joined under Chief Dan Orbih’s leadership. Where exactly did Crusoe come across the Legacy PDP Group? Furthermore, given the group’s dissatisfaction with Governor Okpebholo’s initial appointments, is it logical for them to escalate their concerns to H.E. Nyesom Wike in Abuja instead of addressing Chief Orbih, who enjoys the Governor’s confidence?
I am confident that they were not disengaged when the governor, Senator Okpebholo, recently honored the 20th anniversary of Chief Dan Orbih’s father’s passing. He was with us from the church to the reception ground, displaying obvious affection and conviviality towards Chief Dan Orbih.
A reflection on the accomplishments of Chief Dan Orbih reveals his instrumental role in facilitating the acquisition of tickets for some members of his then Legacy Group, ranging from House of Assembly to Senate. Despite the intense dispute with Obaseki’s group, which escalated to the Supreme Court, Chief remained committed to the cause. Notably, Hon. Paschal Ogbome and others can attest to his efforts. It is also worth noting that Chief Dan did not contest then, nor did any of his relatives. During his tenure as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Edo State Chairman, the Party achieved significant success, producing two senators and several House of Representative members. Therefore, accusations of Chief being self-centered are unfounded and misleading.
A review of Chief Dan Orbih’s achievements highlights his crucial role in facilitating the acquisition of tickets for select members of his former Legacy Group, spanning from the House of Assembly to the Senate. Despite the intense dispute with Obaseki’s group, which escalated to the Supreme Court, Chief remained steadfast in his commitment. Notably, Hon. Paschal Ogbome and others can attest to his efforts. It is also worth noting that Chief Dan did not contest then, nor did any of his relatives. During his tenure as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Edo State Chairman, the Party achieved significant success, producing two senators and several House of Representative members. Therefore, accusations of Chief being self-centered are unfounded and misleading.
Lastly, some of us have contacted H.E. Wike regarding the alleged visit by disgruntled members of the Legacy Group, and he denied meeting with them in Abuja. Which H.E. Wike did Vanguard claim was visited? Should a reputable newspaper like Vanguard not have verified the story by contacting H.E. Wike directly?
Crusoe and his associates under Obaseki need to understand that Chief Dan Orbih’s natural leadership abilities are not predicated on his former role as Chairman of PDP, Edo State, which he relinquished years ago, yet continues to exert significant influence across the 18 LGAs and beyond, currently serving as Vice Chairman, South South.
Chief Dan Orbih has unequivocally expressed his endorsement of good governance in Edo state, applauding the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo for its noteworthy accomplishments thus far, noting that dissidents cannot derail this progress.
Attah Frederick wrote from Abuja.
