The PUNCH reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission fixed September 21, 2024, for the governorship election in the state.
Consequently, the APC slated its primary for February 17, 2024.
Dekeri, a member representing the Etsako Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, who stated this while briefing newsmen in Abuja, on Thursday, said zoning breeds incompetence, adding that the right competencies and skills should be considered.
He said the APC is concerned about winning the governorship election and not zoning.
“It is time Nigeria begins to see beyond the leadership of turn by turn because, in my view, zoning breeds incompetence.
“Once an individual has a sense of entitlement, it could bring out the worst from that human. So we should be looking at a state where we choose leaders on the strength of their competence to lead. Let us dump the turn-by-turn politics,” he said.
Dekeri, while responding to questions, said, “In terms of number, the central has the least number among the three senatorial districts because it’s about 12% of the voting population of the state.
“They have produced two consecutive governors. Edo North, where I come from, has the second largest population in the state, with about 36% of the state population. We have only been privileged to produce a governor in the person of Adams Oshiohomole.
“Like I said earlier, all states in the nation should see beyond this turn-by-turn mentality. We have to look at people with the right competencies, and the right skill set to lead our states and I think we need to grow beyond this.
“The issue of zoning, APC as a party in Edo State is not the ruling party. You can only give what you have, we are looking at how we will wrestle power from this Obaseki-led leadership that is bereft of ideas that the state is subject to. We should have the power first before talking about zoning.”
Assessing the present administration in the state, “People are suffering, people are dying. Basic infrastructures have collapsed. The industries to employ our teaming population are no longer there, all sectors are in bad shape.”
He stated, “My vision for Edo State is one of progress, prosperity, and pride. I aspire to create an environment where every child has access to quality education, the youth are equipped with skills for the future, and our industries flourish, generating employment and driving economic growth. Together, we can build an Edo State that exemplifies good governance, with the welfare of the people at the forefront of every decision.
“I am committed to transparent and accountable leadership, prioritizing the needs of the people. We will work together to eradicate corruption, create a conducive business environment, and ensure that the benefits of democracy reach every corner of our beloved state.
“Edo State is a diverse tapestry of cultures, and I embrace this diversity as a source of strength. My administration will foster unity, building bridges and creating an atmosphere where every citizen feels a sense of belonging and contributes to the collective progress of Edo State”.
