Oshiomhole trying to get third term through back door – Ikimi

He made the comments during an interview with Vanguard. Excerpts below:

Tell us what the critical issues are in the election. Many say you have been a leader in both parties, the APC and the PDP at the national and state levels. Is this all about the political pride and ego of Ikimi and Oshiomhole?

Comrade Adams Oshiomhole has been in politics for about eight years altogether, which covers the whole period of his governorship. I have been in full-time national politics at the highest levels, non- stop, for about 28 years now. There is a vast difference between the two of us.

It is true that I have been a leader of both the PDP and the APC. In 2012, we successfully installed Oshiomhole for a second term. A critical issue in this election is to prevent a de facto third term governorship by Adams Oshiomhole through the back door. We want a state in which all the three senatorial zones operate in harmony and have a sense of belonging.

Some analysts say you want to end your active political career on a high note by ensuring victory for your party at this governorship election after which you will bow out a satisfied politician and successful architect of immeasurable repute and fame. Any truth in this?

A victory by the PDP and the installation of Pastor Osagie Ize-Iyamu as the next governor of Edo will be the best thing to happen at this time for the state, the South-South geo-political zone and indeed the whole country. Edo will breathe a fresh air and embrace a new lease of life. Edo people need to regain their position of excellence in so many spheres once again.

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You have been quoted as saying the result of the September 28 election in Edo will shock Oshiomhole and his APC. What makes you so sure?

Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, I believe, is quite aware of how he got into power in 2007/8 and how he got re-elected in 2012. Oshiomhole has no idea of how Etsako West, his LGA, was created. His insulting of elders has not gone down well with the general public who are determined to pay him back on election day.