Akpata: Edo youths trapped in unemployment, despair — but there is hope

Olumide Akpata, governorship candidate of the Labour Party (LP) in Edo, says youths in the state are “trapped in unemployment and despair”.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Akpata claimed that Godwin Obaseki, governor of Edo, has failed to fulfil his campaign promises to the people of the state.

He said amid the challenges in the state, he sees hope, while he urged residents to vote for a future that truly reflects their greatness.

“The current administration celebrates our 33rd anniversary with pomp and pageantry, brandishing statistics of its supposed achievements. Yet, as I have traversed the length and breadth of our state — from Benin City to Auchi to Uromi — I have witnessed a stark disconnect between these lofty claims and the harsh realities on the ground,” the statement reads.

“This political somersault has brought no relief to the common man. Instead, it has only deepened the wounds of misgovernance and unfulfilled promises.

“The past eight years have been a masterclass in the politics of deception — a government that changed parties but maintained the same disregard for the welfare of its citizens.

“Our youths, once brimming with hope and vigour, now find themselves trapped in a cycle of unemployment and despair.

“Our elderly, who should be enjoying the fruits of their labour, are struggling. Our farmers, the backbone of our economy, grapple with inadequate support and crumbling infrastructure.

“But even in these challenging times, I see reason for hope. In my journeys across the state, I have been inspired by the resilience of our people. I have met young people who, despite all odds, are creating innovative solutions to local problems.

“The stories of everyday courage and perseverance remind us of the true spirit of Edo State — a spirit that no amount of misgovernance can extinguish.”

Akpata said the forthcoming governorship election in the state is an opportunity to embark on a journey of genuine transformation.

“It is this ndomitable spirit that we must now channel into charting a new course for our state. In just 23 days, on September 21 2024, we stand at a critical crossroads,” the LP governorship candidate said.

“In 23 days, we have the power to rewrite the story of our state to cast aside the failures of the past and vote for a future that truly reflects the greatness of our people. This election is more than a political contest.

“It is a battle for the soul of Edo state. It is a choice between continuing down the path of unfulfilled promises and embarking on a journey of genuine transformation.

“Together, we can transform Edo state into a land of opportunity where every citizen has the chance to reach their full potential. We can create a state where our children no longer dream of escaping abroad but aspire to build their futures right here at home.

“A state where innovation thrives, where small businesses flourish, and where our natural and human resources are leveraged to create sustainable wealth for all.”

Akpata said if elected, we would work with residents to build the state and give them “genuine reasons to celebrate in the years to come”.

He said Edo should be a state where progress is not measured by the wealth of a few but by the well-being of all.

The LP governorship candidate added that while the task of governing is enormous, he has the capacity to handle the task.

“The history of Edo state is replete with stories of triumph over adversity, and I have no doubt that we will rise to this occasion once again,” Akpata noted.

The Edo governorship election is scheduled to hold on September 21.