By Osaigbovo Iguobaro, Benin
In a bid to see what history offers as power rises and falters, opinion moulders comprising All Progressives Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) forming a by-partisan group have met in Edo State to streamline competing goals for future partnership.
With 62 percent voting strength of in Edo State, Edo South Senatorial district of the State, according to pundits, the move may determine a turning point in arena of politics in the 2019 general elections which require political deftness and skill to navigate.
Retired Colonel. Paul Ogbebor (rted) turned politician, last Friday played host to his guests at his residence on Ekehuan road in Benin City, the State Capital.
Details of the meeting which was also attended by prominent members of Benin Leaders of Thought (BLT) was yet to be made public, but, sources said the gathering was meant to set a template for the forthcoming general elections.
The forum was a chilling reminder of voting pattern in past and previous elections and confirmed speculation of who gets what by reportedly demanding alignments with her neighbours.
It was learnt that the presence of the Minister of Health (State), Dr. Osagie Ehanire and the surprise appearance of Chief Gabriel Igbinedion whose daughter is gunning for Ovia Federal Constituency seat in House of Representatives, moderated behaviour of political watchers.
No representative was sent to represent the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II at the meeting. But, tge presence of Prince Edun Akenzua II, the Duke of Obazuwa Community and his brother, Prof. Gregory Akenzua II, Duke of Evbuobanosa, epitomising royalty were there. Besides, the Prime minister of Benin, Chief Sam Igbe whose son is currently on Ambassadorial assignment, attended the meeting.
Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu, 2016 Gubernatorial Candidate of PDP who is believed to be one of the few influential actors who longer fear electoral repercussions, was also in attendance, indicating that he has interest in the electoral battle.
Others are Mr. Daniel Aiyanyor, former Surveyor General of the Federation and Prof. Victor Uwaifo and Hon. Omoregie Ogbeide Ihama, member representing Oredo federal House of Representatives.
A former Chairman of APC, Chief John Odigie-Oyegun and Mr. Pius Odubu, Edo State governor, God Obaseki whose extended family members were spotted and a former deputy governor of Edo State were absent at the meeting.
Also absent are Senator Daisy Ehanire Danjuma, Senator Ehigie Uzamere and Senator Mathew Urhoghide who is seeking re-election to the upper chamber in the national Assembly and a renowned business mogul, Capt. Wells Idahosa Okunbo and Prof. Godwin Oshodin, former Vice Chancellor, University of Benin.
It is expected that at the end of the non-partisan gathering, that there would be trade offs, compromises and ground rules for a peaceful elections. If that is the intention, the gathering of cross party members was worth it.
