In a surprising display of camaraderie, Adams Oshiomhole, the senator representing Edo North Senatorial District and former Governor of Edo, affirmed that Governor Godwin Obaseki remains his friend despite their political and party differences. Oshiomhole conveyed this sentiment while delivering a goodwill message at the ongoing 2023 Alaghodaro Summit in Benin.
Themed “The Edo Story: Creating Shared Opportunities into the Future,” the annual Alaghodaro summit is organized by the Edo Government, in collaboration with the private sector, to commemorate Governor Obaseki’s anniversary in office and showcase the state’s transformation into an investment hub.
Expressing gratitude for the invitation, Oshiomhole emphasized that, despite political disparities, he and Obaseki share a friendship that transcends party lines. He urged against portraying differing opinions as a source of conflict and emphasized the need for leaders to approach disagreements with understanding.
“Being friends doesn’t mean we can’t disagree or have different opinions; but we must treat ourselves with love and care. Regardless of what people say, we should not give the impression that different options translate to war,” Oshiomhole stated.
Acknowledging the significance of the Office of the Governor, Oshiomhole highlighted the shared commitment of leaders to the citizens of Edo State, irrespective of political affiliations. He noted that political diversity should not be a cause for enmity but rather an opportunity to engage in constructive debates for the betterment of the state.
Governor Obaseki, in his address, outlined the significant achievements of his administration over the past seven years, focusing on institutional reforms, economic revolution, social welfare, infrastructure development, environmental sustainability, and arts and culture. Former governors John Odigie-Oyegun and Lucky Igbinedion also commended Obaseki’s accomplishments and visionary leadership during the summit.
