• Monday, June 17, 2024
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Edo 2024: Ighodalo joins guber race

Asue Ighodalo: Why we need a captain, not a castaway

…Pledges to tackle poverty, hardship through strategic planning

Asue Ighodalo, co-founder of Banwo & Ighodalo, a prominent corporate & commercial law firm in Nigeria, has set his sights on a new frontier, the political landscape of Nigeria, specifically aiming for the governorship of Edo State.

The intention to embark on this new journey was confirmed by a close source to Ighodalo who disclosed that he had resigned from his positions as chairman of Nigerian Breweries and Sterling Bank in preparation for his political pursuit. His bid aligns with the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) announcement, marking the schedule for the Edo State governorship election on September 12, 2024.

In a social media post on November 29, 2023, Ighodalo invited citizens to engage in discussions about the current state of Edo and its future. Expressing his vision, he emphasized the need to tackle poverty and hardships through strategic planning focused on crucial sectors such as education, technology, healthcare, agriculture, and security. His message conveyed a call for unity and trust between leaders and the populace for the state’s advancement.

“All my life, I’ve pursued excellence through hard work, persistence, and teamwork. Today, I am excited to invite you to join me in honest conversations about Edo State; where we are, and what our vision for the future of our state is,” Ighodalo wrote on X.

His aspirations are rooted in the belief that a collaborative effort can eliminate poverty and overcome current challenges by directing investments towards education, technology, infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, security, and human capital development. He emphasized the critical need to rebuild trust between leaders and citizens to unlock Edo State’s true potential.

Reactions, background

Political commentators and citizens alike have welcomed Ighodalo’s decision, citing his competence, expertise, and significant contributions in various private sectors as evidence of his capability to lead and govern effectively. Michael Oyewole, in a post on X, lauded Ighodalo’s potential to deliver quality governance that enhances lives and development, drawing from his successful track record in the private sector.

“This man possesses the requisite knowledge, capacity, and competence to lead and deliver quality governance,” his post read. “He has done this in various private sectors, and he can bring that wealth of experience to bear on Edo people.”

Ighodalo’s trajectory in the corporate sphere exemplifies a distinguished career marked by his invaluable contributions. Having assumed leadership roles in several reputable organizations including Sterling Bank, Nigerian Breweries, and the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG), Ighodalo’s leadership journey has been illustrious and impactful.

Read also: The rise and rise of Asue Ighodalo

His appointment as non-executive chairman of Nigerian Breweries in 2023 and his vast experience in legal practice and corporate leadership further underscore his credentials.

Beyond professional accomplishments, Ighodalo channels his success toward philanthropy and societal impact, embodying a compassionate and socially responsible approach to leadership.