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Some eighteen months after the April 14 governorship election, a
group, the Benin National Congress (BNC), yesterday reaffirmed its support
for the Action Congress’ (AC’s) Adams Oshiomhole,
saying the former labour leader represent the
aspirations of the organisation. The BNC and Oshiomhole reiterated their
determination to defend the integrity of the electoral system, especially the
voting rights. The social-cultural organisation also
expressed confidence in the ability of the judiciary, especially the Appeal
Court to deliver judgment that would align with the wishes of the people as
expressed in the election. Oshiomhole, who was on
March 20 declared the winner of the governorship election by the Edo State
Election Petitions Tribunal, said the support he enjoyed in the state was a
demonstration that the struggle is not about him, but the future of the
country. Speaking at a crowded reception organised
for Oshiomhole at Saidi
Centre, Benin, BNC’s President Aiyamekhue Edokpolo said the support Oshiomhole
enjoyed was informed by his patriotic commitment to the services of the
state. He said it noticed the qualities when it conferred on him the
"Apostle of Good Governance" award at the Benin National Merit
Award in 2006. Edokpolo said
although the congress is non-partisan body, it would continue to advocate
measures that would help to transform the state and restore it to its pride
of place, stating that the body was concerned on how to make poverty history
in the state An elated Oshiomhole said: "When God
final gives us the mandate we would ensure that we govern to the benefit of
the people." He said the support he has enjoyed in the face of intimidation and
harassment had shown that "they are priceless and cannot be bought with
money." The former labour leader said the sight of
frail old men and women, who were waiting at the airport to receive him under
the scorching sun on Tuesday, has strengthened his faith in the nation’s
future. |