PDP Urges Press Independence, Criticizes Infrastructure Priorities in Edo State
The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called on journalists to maintain their professional integrity and provide objective coverage of state affairs, particularly amid what they describe as “governance by propaganda” under the current APC administration.
During his first press meeting at the PDP Secretariat in Benin City on Tuesday, the party’s new State Publicity Secretary, Dan Osa Ogbegie Esq., emphasized the importance of uncompromised reporting despite potential pressures of fear or favor.
In a comprehensive critique of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s eleven-month tenure, Ogbegie questioned the administration’s infrastructure priorities, specifically challenging the necessity of the Benin flyover project at Ramat Park, Ikpoba Hill. He argued that rehabilitating roads in the Government Reservation Area (GRA) should have taken precedence, citing the area’s economic significance as a hub for major hotels and a gateway for visitors to Benin City.
The PDP spokesperson expressed concern over the current administration’s approach to existing government initiatives, particularly regarding security infrastructure. “Government is continuing,” Ogbegie stated, criticizing Governor Okpebholo’s decisions to dismantle his predecessor’s programs rather than building upon them.
Chris Enehikhare, the party’s former Publicity Secretary, highlighted the previous administration’s achievement of constructing 1,300 kilometers of roads across the state between 2016 and 2024. He also defended former Governor Godwin Obaseki against allegations of fleeing the state, explaining that Obaseki’s distance was intended to allow the new administration space to demonstrate its capabilities.
Looking ahead, the PDP pledged to focus on rebuilding trust and preparing for the 2027 elections, while maintaining that the 2024 election outcome remains contentious. Ogbegie promised his tenure would be marked by accessibility, clarity, and integrity in communication with the media and public.
“Our responsibility as Edo people is clear — to rescue truth from propaganda, competence from mediocrity, and hope from the ashes of bad governance,” Ogbegie concluded, emphasizing the party’s commitment to working alongside media partners to achieve these goals.
Leave a Comment