Edo PDP Denounces Governor Okpebholo's Proposal for State-Owned Airline as Ill-Timed

The Edo State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has voiced its disapproval of Governor Okpebholo's initiative to launch a state-owned airline, labeling it both impractical and insensitive.

In response to Governor Monday Okpebholo's recent meeting with the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, in Abuja, where he disclosed his intention to establish an airline for the state, the PDP described the proposal as poorly conceived and a misallocation of priorities.

Dan Osa-Ogbegie, the Publicity Secretary of the state PDP, emphasized that the proposal serves as a clear example of misplaced priorities, further revealing a government that is profoundly out of touch with the pressing challenges facing the people of Edo State.

The Governor claimed that the airline initiative would enhance the state’s aviation sector. A statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Dr. Patrick Ebojele, suggested that the discussions revolved around the proposed Edo Air project, aimed at bolstering air connectivity, stimulating economic activity, and attracting investment opportunities.

Nonetheless, the PDP argued that, during a period when Edo State is struggling with deteriorating infrastructure, worsening urban conditions, and unfulfilled strategic initiatives, the idea of launching an airline is not just unrealistic but also deeply insensitive. They pointed out that operating an airline demands significant financial investment, technical expertise, and has historically proven disastrous for many state governments in Nigeria.

Benin City, the state's capital, has regrettably fallen short of the standard expected of a modern capital city. Comparing it to other capitals in Nigeria, Benin City now presents an alarmingly rural and embarrassing environment. Many roads are nearly impassable, urban planning has deteriorated, drainage systems are neglected, and essential municipal services are often ineffective or entirely non-existent. This reflects poorly on a city with Benin's rich history and potential.

The PDP also expressed concern over the decline of crucial state assets and initiatives. Notably, the Museum of West African Art (MOWAA), which was once seen as a key cultural and tourism driver, has deteriorated. Similarly, the Radisson Hotel project has seen no progress for months.

Furthermore, the Ossiomo Power project, which should be powering industrial growth, is approaching a state of dormancy. EdoGIS, a crucial land administration body for generating revenue, is nearly inactive. These shortcomings directly impact development, job creation, revenue generation, and investor trust but remain largely unaddressed.

Rather than tackling these significant issues, Governor Okpebholo has shown a tendency to focus on projects that offer little genuine benefit, such as the current flyover constructions at Ramat Park and Adesuwa Junction on Sapele Road.

Given this grim situation, the PDP views the sudden announcement of the airline project as not only frivolous but also as a diversion from the real issues at hand. They argue that when the city's roads are almost impassable, public transport is in chaos, healthcare is overstretched, schools are lacking basic infrastructure, and security is fragile, suggesting the launch of an airline indicates a disturbing lack of judgment and economic understanding.

The Edo PDP firmly maintains that limited state resources should be directed towards areas yielding direct and widespread benefits such as the comprehensive restoration of urban and inter-city roads, modern drainage systems, upgrades of public schools and hospitals, reliable power and water supply, support for SMEs, skills training for youth, improved security measures, and the successful completion of existing strategic projects funded by taxpayers.

In conclusion, the Edo PDP urged the state government to abandon its plan for the airline and instead focus on the immediate and critical needs of the people of Edo State.